House debates

Monday, 18 March 2024

Statements by Members

Holt Electorate: Holi Celebrations

5:34 pm

Photo of Cassandra FernandoCassandra Fernando (Holt, Australian Labor Party) Share this | | Hansard source

I wish everyone in my electorate of Holt and across Australia a happy Holi. Holi is a festival that symbolises the vibrancy, unity and boundless spirit of our diverse community. Holi is not just a festival of colours; it transcends boundaries, bringing together people of all backgrounds, ages and beliefs in joy and friendship. It is a celebration of renewal, forgiveness and the triumph of good over evil. It symbolises the arrival of spring—a time of new beginnings and fresh hope. It teaches us the importance of letting go of past grievances, embracing each other with open arms and spreading love and happiness in abundance.

I was delighted to attend Hare Krishna Melbourne's Holi celebrations in the Melbourne's south-east with my dear friend and senator for Western Australia, Varun Ghosh. I would like to thank Bhakta Dasa, Nitin Pullat and everyone at ISKCON for inviting us to join these wonderful celebrations. In today's world, where divisiveness often threatens to overshadow our shared humanity, Holi serves as a powerful reminder of the values that unite us. Happy Holi.