Council of Indian Australians Inc hosts a grand Deepavali celebration at Castle Hill Showground, attended by Australia’s Governor-General, NSW Premier, distinguished political leaders and Bollywood actress Evelyn Sharma.
Editor : Daljeet Bakshi , Editor in chief Harmohan Singh Walia ( Community Vounteer Photographer )
Sydney’s Castle Hill Showground was transformed into a vibrant celebration of Indian culture, heritage and community spirit as the Council of Indian Australians Inc (CIA) successfully hosted its Diwali Festival 2026 on Saturday, 24 October.
The grand celebration of Deepavali, widely known as the Festival of Lights, brought together families, political dignitaries, community leaders, cultural performers and people from diverse backgrounds, reflecting the richness of Australia’s multicultural society and the growing cultural influence of the Indian diaspora.
The festival showcased an impressive array of Bollywood entertainment, traditional Indian music and dance, cultural performances, authentic Indian cuisine, community stalls and amusement rides. The celebrations culminated in a spectacular fireworks display that illuminated the night sky over the Hills District, providing a memorable finale to the festivities.
Distinguished Dignitaries Grace the Celebrations
A significant highlight of the festival was the presence of several prominent Australian political leaders and dignitaries, demonstrating strong recognition and support for the Indian Australian community.
Among the distinguished guests were Her Excellency the Honourable Sam Mostyn AC, Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia; the Honourable Chris Minns MP, Premier of New South Wales; and the Honourable Prue Car MP, Deputy Premier of New South Wales.
Other prominent attendees included the Honourable Mark Hodges MP, Member for Castle Hill, representing the Honourable Kellie Sloane MP, Leader of the NSW Opposition; the Honourable Alex Hawke MP, Federal Member for Mitchell; and the Honourable Robyn Preston MP, Member for Hawkesbury.
Local government was also strongly represented, with Dr Michelle Byrne, Mayor of The Hills Shire Council; Councillor Frank De Masi, Deputy Mayor of The Hills Shire Council; and Councillor Sandy Reddy, Mayor of Strathfield Council, joining the celebrations.
Councillors from The Hills Shire Council and Blacktown City Council, alongside numerous community leaders, cultural representatives and local advocates, also participated in the festivities.
The presence of senior government representatives highlighted the importance of community-led cultural celebrations in strengthening social cohesion, fostering intercultural understanding and recognising the contributions of Indian Australians to the nation’s multicultural identity.
Adding glamour and excitement to the celebrations was the special appearance of Bollywood actress Evelyn Sharma, whose presence delighted festivalgoers, particularly young fans and families.
The actress warmly interacted with attendees, shared festive greetings and contributed to the celebratory atmosphere. Her participation added a special entertainment dimension to an event already rich in cultural experiences.
Beyond its colourful entertainment, Diwali Festival 2026 conveyed a meaningful message of unity, inclusion and shared cultural values.
Deepavali symbolises the victory of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance and hope over despair. In Australia’s multicultural landscape, the festival has evolved into an important occasion for communities to come together, celebrate diversity and strengthen mutual respect.
The festivities at Castle Hill Showground provided an opportunity for younger generations of Indian Australians to reconnect with their cultural heritage while introducing people from other backgrounds to the traditions, customs and vibrant artistic expressions of India.
Such celebrations also reinforce the significant role played by multicultural organisations in promoting cultural exchange and building stronger, more connected Australian communities.
The successful delivery of the large-scale festival was supported by generous corporate sponsors and community partners. SBS supported the event as Platinum Sponsor, with Domaine Homes as Gold Sponsor and Radhe Wholesale & Retail as Silver Sponsor. Additional community support was provided by Malabar Gold & Diamonds, RD Facilities Management and The Hills Shire Council.
The organisers also acknowledged Harmohan Singh Walia for capturing memorable photographs of the celebration.
These partnerships reflected the value of collaboration between businesses, local government and community organisations in supporting major multicultural events.
Leadership, Volunteers and Community Participation
Under the leadership of CIA President Ashish Desai, the Council’s executive team, dedicated volunteers, performers, masters of ceremonies and participating stallholders worked collectively to deliver a successful and memorable festival.
The Council expressed its appreciation to the distinguished guests, sponsors, community organisations and members of the public whose enthusiastic participation contributed to the event’s success.
The festival also highlighted the continuing efforts of the Council of Indian Australians Inc to preserve and promote Indian cultural traditions while encouraging meaningful engagement with Australia’s broader multicultural community.
Diwali Festival 2026 was more than a celebration of lights, music and entertainment. It represented the growing confidence, cultural vibrancy and community engagement of Indian Australians, whose contributions continue to enrich Australia’s social, economic and cultural fabric.
The participation of senior political leaders, multicultural representatives and the wider community underscored the significance of such events in promoting harmony, mutual understanding and stronger community relationships.
As the fireworks illuminated the skies above Castle Hill, the celebration concluded with a powerful reminder that cultural diversity remains one of Australia’s greatest strengths.
Through its successful Diwali Festival 2026, the Council of Indian Australians Inc once again demonstrated how cultural celebrations can transcend boundaries, connect generations and bring communities together in the shared spirit of unity, friendship and inclusion.
