The spirit of Holi and the message of Harmony Week were brought to life at NSW Parliament House this week, as Holi in the House welcomed a diverse cross section of leaders and community voices for a morning celebration centred on culture, connection, and inclusivity.
Held in the early hours of the day, the event gathered more than 100 attendees from across business, government, First Nations communities, and multicultural organisations reflecting the depth and diversity of New South Wales’ social fabric.
Hosted by the NSW Parliamentary Friends of India in partnership with the Consulate General of India in Sydney, the occasion marked both Holi and Harmony Week, reinforcing shared values of respect inclusion and community cohesion.
Strong support from NSW based industry bodies business chambers multicultural media and community organisations underscored the collaborative nature of the gathering. Contributions from Workinitiatives helped facilitate meaningful engagement between stakeholders across sectors.
Co Chair of the Parliamentary Friends of India Warren Kirby emphasised the importance of the event.
“This event is a reminder of what makes our community strong — diversity, shared respect, and the willingness to come together. Seeing over 100 local businesses and community leaders in one space at NSW Parliament House, building relationships and celebrating culture, is exactly what we need more of during current challenging times.”
Warren Kirby MP
Co Chair, NSW Parliamentary Friends of India
India Consul General in Sydney Dr S. Janakiraman acknowledged the strong bipartisan support for the Indian diaspora within NSW Parliament and highlighted the continued growth in trade, economic engagement, and community ties between New South Wales and India.
From an industry perspective, Irfan Malik of the Australia India Business Council reflected on the broader significance of the initiative.
“NSW Parliamentary Friends of India should be congratulated for their leadership in delivering an event that not only honoured tradition, but also strengthened the bridges between cultures, industries and communities.”
“It was particularly important to acknowledge the strong role and meaningful impact of Indian diaspora led businesses and entrepreneurs, who continue to foster stronger economic and social outcomes for New South Wales and Australia broader multicultural communities.”
Irfan Malik
President NSW, Australia India Business Council
Set against the rooftop garden of Parliament House, the morning gathering created a vibrant and symbolic setting for conversations that extended beyond celebration. Dialogue throughout the event focused on collaboration, opportunity, and the continued growth of Australia India relations driven by both institutional partnerships and strong people to people connections.
The event also highlighted the growing influence of the Indian Australian community in New South Wales, one of the fastest growing diaspora groups in the country, with contributions across business education innovation and community leadership continuing to shape the state multicultural identity.
The gathering concluded with a shared sense of celebration, connection, and gratitude, reflecting both the cultural significance of Holi and the broader importance of fostering inclusive and collaborative communities across New South Wales.
