Sydney’s Science Week began with vibrant energy on 16 August as Bandana Cultural School hosted the fifth edition of its flagship festival, “Science, Visual and Performing Arts – A Multilingual Confluence 2025”, at the RedGum Function Centre in Wentworthville.
Blending innovation, creativity, and culture, the six-hour festival showcased the talents of more than 35 students ranging from primary to university level, who presented scientific models and projects alongside dynamic performances in dance, drama, calligraphy, and visual arts. The event highlighted the school’s commitment to nurturing well-rounded individuals through both scientific exploration and artistic expression.
A Celebration of Borderless Knowledge
Organiser and founder Dr Tanima Banerjee emphasised that the event underscored how science is “borderless knowledge belonging to all cultures and humanity” while the arts remain a universal language connecting communities. The theme was vividly expressed through multilingual recitations, multicultural fusions, and a motivational play titled “Pause the Screen and Play the Dream”, which encouraged young people to balance digital engagement with creativity and hard work.
Distinguished Guests and Dignitaries
The festival drew the support of distinguished guests and leaders, adding prestige to the occasion. Among them were:
- Dr Janakiraman, Consul General of India in Sydney
- Hon. Julia Finn MP, Parliamentary Secretary to the NSW Premier, representing the Premier’s Office
- Hon. Jacqui Munro, MLC, Shadow Assistant Minister for the Arts, Innovation, Digital Government and the 24-Hour Economy
- Meredith Hall, Manager of Inspiring Australia
- Mr Warren Eric Kirby MP, Member for Riverstone
- Mr Subba Rao Varigonda, President of the India Support Centre
Several members of the NSW Parliament, Clr Sabrin Farooqui OAM, Waren and Ms Gaowri of the Children’s Festival team (representing Mr Thuat V. Nguyen AM), and other community leaders also attended. Messages of support were received from the Governor General, NSW Premier Hon. Chris Minns, Mayor Ola Hamed of Cumberland Council, and multiple councillors.
Engaging Highlights and Community Spirit
The program was packed with engaging performances that captivated the 375-strong audience. Children first demonstrated their scientific understanding through models and experiments before taking to the stage for multicultural creative performances, including Rabindra Nritya dance, multilingual recitations, and a motivational theatrical play with the message “Hard Work is the Key to Success.”
Adding to the joy, elders participated in the school’s signature Bollywood Fit program, bringing lively retro-to-modern Bollywood dance to the stage. Every participant received a prize, ranging from tickets to subject-specific books to colourful certificates designed by Subash Dasgupta in Kolkata, India.
A Growing Tradition
Dr Banerjee reflected on the success of this fifth edition, noting that the festival continues to grow as a bridge between science and culture. “This event proves that science and culture speak a universal language,” she said, highlighting her ongoing commitment to mentoring the next generation through both online and face-to-face learning.
As the curtains closed on a meticulously organised celebration, the audience left inspired, eagerly awaiting the next edition of this unique festival that unites knowledge, creativity, and community spirit.
