All
NRISA memebers and guests enjoyed a lovely bus trip to Lorne on May 18th 2025. Mr. Yashpal Vasudeva hosted the trip , ably aided and supported by Mr. Hari Dayal Kohli. Together they ensured full entertainment for everyone throughout the trip. About 50 people joined the excursion. It was perfect sunny day and Mini ji, Abha ji , Madhav ji, Uma ji and others in their on style brought colours to this trip. Overall it was trip full of fun and entertainmenet and everyone enjoyed it.
NRISA celebrated the festival of colours Holi on 16th March at Ivanhoe Library Theatrette between 2-4 PM. The function was graced by Cr Elizabeth Nealey, Mayor City of Banyule. Mr.Prem Sinha introduced Holi with his wonderful narratives on mythologies and cultural aspects related with Holi and Dr. Santosh Kumar (MC) kickstarted the program with NUTBUSH music and Aussie dance. Ms. Janaki and Dr.Amita set the Holi tune with a beautiful Radha- Krishna Holi dance while Mr. Hari Kohli entertained everyone with aplomb with a beutiful Rafi song “Kabhi na kabhi dil kahin na kahin”. This was follwed by a superb and graceful Kathak dance recital by Ms. Deepti Shukla and her team from Abhivyakti Fine Arts Academy. A short skid by Parminder ji, Gulab ji and Santosh ji gave everyone a humarous break. This was followed by Ms. Sheena Ghosh and team, who presented some lively Bollywood Holi numbers. Dr. Rajiv Edavan presented another popular Rafi song from Mere Sanam “Pukarta Chala hoon main”. Mr. Colin entertained everyone with his unique Degeridoo recital by synthesizing many medley of sounds from nature. This was followed by a medley of lively Holi songs by Ms. Meenu Wadhwa. The program finished with another exquisite classic dance performance by Ms.Deepti and her team. Ms. Kate Finn (Ivanhoe Library) presented the vote of thanks, Finally everyone enjoyed some traditional Holi snacks and tea.
NRISA celebrated the Indian Republic Day in advance – on 19 January 2025 – at the Preston City Hall. The event was graced by the presence of Dr Sushil Kumar, Consul General of India in Melbourne and Cr Kristine Olaris OAM (Mayor of Darebin). Both delivered speeches to mark the occasion and spoke about the emerging Australia – India friendship. Entertainment was provided by our members with Dr Tejinder Singh presenting a short stage play, highlighting the Indian values of Unity with Diversity. Patriotic songs were presented by Surinder Jain, Vijay Sehgal and Sameer. A fine patriotic poem was recited by Arya Pabla, a 9 year old girl.
Photos by Guruswamy P
Members took a bus trip to the historic town of Korrumburra in South Gippsland. Inspite of the weather, we walked through the Coal Creek Community Park and Museum, before having lunch at Divas Tandoori Indian Restaurant. After spending an hour playing Bingo, we returned to Melbourne.
Photos by Yashpal Vasudeva and Prem Sinha
NRISA celebrated Diwali at Spirit of India with over 80 members and guests. Victorian MP, Kat Theophanous graced the occasion. Entertainment was provided by the Chandralaya Dance group (Usha & Radhika presenting the Bharat Natyam), Tahir Khan and his band (the Geetanjali group) and our own members’ dance group led by Janaki Ganapathy, with songs by Hardayal and Sameer. Members had a wonderful time with many occupying the dance floor.
Photos by Guruswamy
This event was held under sponsorship by Federation of Ethenic Communities Councils of Australia (FECCA). The benefits of immunization were highlighted by a panel of 4 doctors, led by Dr Tejinder Singh. Guest doctor was Nayana Garg. The usual musical entertainment and lunch followed the discussions.
Photos by: Guruswamy P, Rajiv Edavan & Baikunth Nath
The highlight was a talk on Eye Issues for Seniors by Dr Ajit Singh. A few songs were performed and the entertainment culminated with a Bingo session. A very enjoyable lunch was provided by Anand Tandon.
Photos by Yashpal Vasudeva
NRISA celebrated the Baisakhi festival at the Bent St hall. The Chief Guest was Susanne Newton, Mayor of Darebin. The program consisted of singing and dancing, followed by lunch. We also celebrated the 90th birthday of Bill Gupta’s Mum. Several members helped to make the event a success. The guest rapper was Samar Sachdeva of 7SA fame.
Photos by Guruswamy P
NRISA joined hands with the Ivanhoe Library to celebrate Holi. The occasion was graced by the presence of Air Marshall (Retd) Ajit Bhonsle, Tom Melican (Mayor of Banyile Council), Jane Cowell and Kate Finn (both from the Ivanhoe Library). Entertainment was provided by (1) Our own members’ dance team led by Janaki Ganapathy, (2) Sridevi group dancers, (3) Musicians Krishna Bhandari (Flutist) and Amit Patel (Tabla), & (4) Bhim Sen (Singer).
Photos by Guruswamy P
