The First ever illumination of a Parliament House for celebrating Deepavali acknowledging the richness of the culture of the people of Indian Sub-continental heritage, took place at the Parliament House of NSW in 2003.

Since 2003 the celebration has taken place every year at the Parliament House of NSW except in 2007.

In 2007 the first ever plaque was erected in the Parliament House of NSW to commemorate the historic success of the Deepavali celebration. The inscription on the plaque reads:

“This plaque is erected to commemorate the joint achievements of the Australians of Indian Sub-Continental heritage represented by “The Deepavali Festival Committee of New South Wales” , the Parliament and the Government of New South Wales, in promoting community harmony and mutual respect.”

The exterior of the Parliament House of NSW will be illuminated from 17 Oct to 30 Oct 2009 for this celebration this year. All are encouraged to travel to Macquarie street, opposite Martin Place, Sydney, to see this illumination.

Please contact Mr. Raj Datta on 0402386738 / rdatta@deepavalifestival.org.au if you have any query or if you would kindly like to help this unique celebration of ‘Unity in diversity’. Your kind support will be highly appreciated.