By Jessica Anstice
Siri Guru Nanak Darbar (SGND), the Sikh temple in Officer, is celebrating Bandi Chor Diwas and Diwali in a spiritual environment on Sunday 27 October.
In another unique celebration, the day will bring mirth and merriment of the festival for the community while catalysing social cohesion with the statesmen participating as volunteers rather than guests at the celebrations.
“Our key leaders will assist with cooking and serving meals for community members as volunteers while weaving multicultural bonds, underscoring the significance of healthy eating and using the opportunity to learn about other cultures and food,” SGND spokesperson Harpreet Singh said.
“This wonderful idea came up from Gembrook MP Brad Battin who has visited the Gurdwara many times.”
The day will host morning and evening programs, kids’ activities fireworks with vegetarian meals and delicacies served all day.
Seventeen local organisations are supporting the celebration and more than 10 politicians have confirmed their attendance as volunteers.
Female volunteers will be leading the celebrations including preparing delicacies.
“Diwali colloquially ‘Indian Christmas’ is one of the main festivals celebrated by multiple
faiths and stretches back 2500 years,” Mr Singh said.
“This festival of lights marks family togetherness and festivities.
“It holds special religious significance for the Sikh faith as it marks the day of release of sixth Sikh Guru, Guru Hargobind Singh from the prison and he ensured the simultaneous release of other 52 Hindu Kings from the Mughal Emperor Jahangir.”
Since its inception early this year SGND has been actively involved in hosting many activities
to build community bridges and promote harmony and wellbeing.
The event will mark a great opportunity to immerse in joy of celebrations while enhancing learning about other cultures and providing opportunity to see statesmen cooking and serving meals.
For more information check SGND website www.sgnd.com.au or Facebook page.
