16 March 2022
Many Victorians celebrate Bengali New Year and Bangladesh Independence Day, signifying the start to a joyous time known for uniting friends and family across the state.
Member for Narre Warren South Gary Maas MP, represented the Minister for Multicultural Affairs, the Hon Ros Spence MP, at the Australia Bangladesh Association of Victoria’s celebration of Bengali New Year 1492 and Bangladesh Independence Day.
The event took place on 14 March 2022, at Gloria Pyke Netball Complex and showcased members of the local Bangladesh community proudly wearing traditional dress and uplifting hundreds of attendees through dance and cultural music that ensures the rich Bengal culture remains vibrant and strong.
Gary Maas thanked the Association’s President, Reza Siddique, for the warm welcome and praised the performers and contributors for their talent and community spirit.
The event included cultural performances, poetry recitations, market stalls with foods and garments, as well as speeches from event organisers and special guests.
Bengali New Year is celebrated on 14/15 April every year and Bangladesh Independence Day occurs on 26 March.
Bengali New Year is significant for many Victorians as it provides a moment to reflect on the year that has passed while practising gratitude and looking forward to the new year ahead.
The celebration is a time for many community members to come together and socialise in large crowds while sharing their culture once again after what has been a difficult two years during the global pandemic.
A symbol of national spirit, the event signified what makes Victoria such a proud multicultural state through the sharing of our diverse cultures with each other.
Quotes attributable to Member for Narre Warren South Gary Maas MP:
“After the recent challenges of the global pandemic, it was amazing to see the community celebrate the Bengali New Year and Bangladesh Independence Day through dance, music and traditional customs.”
“It was an honour to represent the Minister for Multicultural Affairs and to be surrounded by so many resilient community members, friends and families.”
“Bengali New Year and Bangladesh Independence Day is a joyous time in which community members unite to showcase and appreciate their rich culture as they look forward to the year ahead. It was a pleasure to attend and to be a part of the celebrations.”