A full house at Doltone House, Western Sydney (Bossley Park) marked India’s 79th Independence Day on Sunday with the Indians in Sydney Gala Dinner, an evening of pageantry, performance and community pride.
Organised by Indians in Sydney and led by founder Nadeem Ahmed, the gala drew a broad cross-section of leaders across party lines. Dignitaries in attendance included NSW Premier Chris Minns; NSW Opposition Leader Mark Speakman; federal MPs Zhi Soon (Member for Banks), Sally Sitou (Member for Reid) and Andrew Charlton (Member for Parramatta); Senator Dave Sharma (NSW); and NSW state MPs Donna Davis (Member for Parramatta), Mark Coure (Member for Oatley) and Warren Kirby (Member for Riverstone). Their remarks highlighted the Indian community’s contribution to the social, cultural and economic life of Greater Sydney.
The program showcased a sweep of traditional performances—ranging from classical and folk dance to live music—before shifting into a fashion show that celebrated regional textiles, contemporary silhouettes and the vibrancy of Indian design. Audience members responded with sustained applause as performers moved between styles and eras, underscoring the event’s theme of unity in diversity.
The event also included the official launch of The Australian Canvas, a media production hub spearheaded by the organisers of Indians in Sydney.
As part of the formalities, awards were presented to members of Sydney’s Indian community, recognising service and achievement across fields such as community leadership, small business, arts and culture, sport and youth initiatives. Recipients were acknowledged for strengthening connections across communities and for mentoring the next generation.
With families, community organisations and civic leaders sharing the floor, the evening doubled as a meeting point for collaboration. Guests left with the sense of a community both honouring its heritage and shaping Sydney’s future.
