Wednesday, 19 February 2025

 Sheena WATT (Northern Metropolitan) (10:00): I have got to tell you the weather in Melbourne well and truly came out last Sunday, when I had the privilege of joining my colleagues Lee Tarlamis, Belinda Wilson, Pauline Richards and Iwan Walters at the Southside Racing course in Cranbourne for the BAPS Australia celebration of peace festival. This event marked the beginning of a remarkable 20-day celebration honouring the historic visit of His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj to Victoria at the incredible age of 92. With Melbourne and Sydney as his only stops in Australia, devotees and volunteers from across the country have gathered for this rare and significant occasion. Events like this bring together people of all ages in a shared spirit of faith, culture and selfless service, strengthening Victoria’s diverse communities. BAPS plays a crucial role in building bridges between cultural groups, fostering tolerance, cooperation and social harmony. His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj’s visit is a celebration of peace, uniting Hindus and others through spiritual, cultural and social activities. A temporary exhibition has been created by BAPS volunteers, and it is truly something special. It showcases Hindu mandir architecture and its role in daily life, instilling values that benefit all Victorians. This festival is a shining example of how faith can inspire unity, joy and understanding in our multicultural society.