Category: Past Events

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

On January 21, 2024, NRISA celebrated Australia Day and the Indian Republic Day at The Preston Town Hall. The Consulate General of India in Melbourne, Dr Sushil Kumar, was the Chief Guest. Also in attendance were some members (serving and retired) of the Indian Defense Forces. The entertainment consisted of songs and dances by Sheena Ghosh, Rashmi Pachnanda and Meenu Wadhwa. Lunch was provided by Shahnai Indian Restaurant.

Photos by Guruswamy

Photos by Guruswamy P

Photos by Guruswamy P