“Indian Diaspora: Hindus and Sikhs in Australia” book released

To felicitate the Indian Diaspora and celebrate its presence in the Australian soil, a book titled, “Indian Diaspora: Hindus and Sikhs in Australia” was released by the Honorable Consul General of India, Ms. Manika Jain.

The book edited by Purushottama Bilimoria, and co-edited by Jayant Bhalchandra Bapat and Rev. Dr Philip Hughes, outlines the history of Indian migration to Australia from 19th century onwards and the evolution of Diaspora to present times.

Hindus and Sikhs, being the largest Indian Diaspora in Australia, the work gives fascinating accounts of their customs and practices, their cultural intermingling with each other and with the culture of wider Australian community. It brings out vividly how profoundly Indians have contributed not only to culture, society and way of life in Australia but also to Australian thought, psyche and economy with harmony.

On the one hand, the Book dispels the general belief that Indian migration to Australia is a recent phenomenon which commenced in second half of the 20th century and on the other hand it gives a spectacular window into the Hindu and Sikh cultural and religious practices in Australia.

Ms. Manika Jain, the honorable chief guest during her inaugural speech said,
“It is a matter of great pride and pleasure for me to be launching such a timely publication entitled “Indian Diaspora: Hindus and Sikhs in Australia”.

The Indian diaspora in Australia has grown over the years and it has witnessed one of the highest growth rates in the recent times. At present, the Persons of Indian Origin in Australia are approximately half a million which is sizeable enough in changing the contours of Australian multicultural society and also its economy.

The Indian diaspora in Australia is growing in different climate and culture than its roots. It is vibrant, dynamic, assimilating and also giving, which provides very exciting opportunities to historians, sociologists and anthropologists. Therefore, I say this Book is very timely, but there are more reasons to celebrate the publication of this work”.

Appreciating the diplomatic relations between India and Australia, Ms. Jain also expressed her contentment on the healthier and happier understanding between the two nations.

“Since last year we have seen resurgence in diplomatic and political activities between India and Australia. The engagement is at a new height in all sectors, segments and levels. We are witnessing a better understanding in strategic alliance between us and both countries are looking for economic dividends from this partnership.

However, no partnership can achieve its full potential unless there is an understanding between its people. For partnerships between countries, it is imperative that their respective people understand the similarities, differences and each other’s history and culture. I believe this body of work will facilitate in understanding Indians in Australia. By knowing traditions, cultures, religions and the journeys of Indian Australians, it will form a bridge which will enable to understand Indians”.

The honorable Minister also congratulated Dr.Purushottama Bilimoria, Dr. Jayant B. Bapat and Rev. Dr. Philip Hughes for their painstaking hard work of seven years which resulted in this excellent work on Indian diaspora in Australia.

“I congratulate Dr. Bilimoria, Dr. Bapat and Dr. Hughes for putting together this work which is not only timely but also really needed, and wish them all success in this labour of love,” she was quoted as saying.

https://www.cra.org.au/products-page/books/the-indian-diaspora-hindus-and-sikhs-in-australia/