Page 15 - Punjab Times April 2019 Baisakhi Special Edition

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15 gzikp NkJhwgzikp NkJhwz, f;vBh, ngq?b, f;vBh, ngq?b 2019
15 gzikp NkJhw , f;vBh, ngq?b
15 gzikp NkJhwgzikp NkJhw , f;vBh, ngq?b, f;vBh, ngq?b

HAPPY SIKH NEW YEAR
It is with great pleasure that I wish Australian Sikh communities
celebrating Sikh New Year a joyous time with friends and family. Sikh New
Year is an important event in the Sikh calendar. Traditionally, Sikh New
Year is a harvest festival observed as a thanksgiving in the Punjab region
of northern India. The celebration involves prayers, music and dancing,
processions and sharing of food.

In Australia, Sikh New Year celebrations not only recognise the
contribution Australian Sikhs have made to Australia since their arrival 150
years ago, it is also a day of music, food, games and a showcase of Sikh
culture, history and tradition.
Sikhism is now the fifth largest religion in Australia and the celebrations
continue to grow in popularity. Today, it is celebrated by people of all
backgrounds, who embrace the opportunity to participate and share in
Australia’s cultural diversity.

Australia is a country of many faith-based communities. This is something
we hold dear as a thriving democracy. We can all embrace the ideals of
friendship and belonging in a harmonious society, sharing our cultural
diversity and celebrating what it means to be Australian.

Throughout Australia, multicultural communities include hard working
individuals and families who have embraced Australia as their home, have
contributed to our economy and the rich tapestry of our society.

May the New Year bring happiness and good luck for you all.

The Hon. David Coleman MP