Toowoomba Indian groups come together to celebrate Independence

For the first time in Toowoomba’s history, all of the Indian groups and associations are gathering together to celebrate Independence Day as one united community.

CELEBRATION: Preparing for Indian Independence Day celebrations are (from left) Gitie House, Ravindar Madhas, Yaju Mahida, Sarabjeet Kaur, Paul Varghese and Aaditi Dang. Picture: Kevin Farmer

For the first time in Toowoomba history, the different Indian communities and associations from across the Darling Downs are coming together to celebrate India’s 75th Independence Day this Saturday.

“The Indian population has increased significantly in Toowoomba over the past 10 years,” one of the event co-ordinators, Yaju Mahida, said.

Preparing for Indian Independence Day celebrations are (from left) Gitie House, Ravindar Madhas, Yaju Mahida, Sarabjeet Kaur, Paul Varghese and Aaditi Dang. Picture: Kevin Farmer

“As we have immigrated to Australia, we have brought with us those same diversities and cultures of India, and this year we wanted to celebrate unitedly, as this is a chance for all Indians to celebrate the privilege of freedom for which our forefathers sacrificed 75 years ago.”

Mr Mahida and his fellow event co-ordinators said various Indian groups worked hard throughout the year to ensure that through community celebration the spirit of India was kept alive for upcoming generations of Australian Indians.

With ticket sales already depleted, it appears this Toowoomba first will be followed up with many more community events in the years ahead.