Holi in the House Celebrates Unity, Culture and Community at NSW Parliament 

Sydney, NSW — The spirit of colour, connection and cultural celebration filled the halls of NSW Parliament House this week as Holi in the House brought together more than 100 business leaders, community representatives, first nation leaders and government and industry stakeholders to celebrate one of the world’s most vibrant festivals while recognising the strong multicultural fabric of New South Wales and Australia during Harmony Week. 

Hosted by the NSW Parliamentary Friends of India and the Consulate General of India in Sydney, the event marked the celebration of Holi and Harmony Week, reinforcing a shared commitment to inclusivity, cultural respect, and community cohesion. 

The gathering was proudly supported by several NSW-based industry bodies, business chambers, community organisations, and multicultural media groups. The event was well attended by representatives from government agencies, business and industry leadership, and community-based organisations. Support was also acknowledged from Workinitiatives, a social enterprise supporting Australian industries through a global talent mobility and skills framework-based ecosystem, whose contribution helped create a meaningful platform for connection between government, business and community. 

NSW Parliamentary Friends of India Co-Chair, Warren Kirby MP, acknowledged the significance of the event, noting that Holi reflects the values that strengthen communities and foster belonging across cultures. 

Dr S. Janakiraman, Consul General of India in Sydney, recognised the strong bipartisan support demonstrated by NSW Parliamentarians towards the Indian diaspora community and commended the NSW Parliamentary Friends of India for their ongoing leadership in fostering deeper community engagement and advancing the expanding bilateral trade and economic relationship between New South Wales and India. 

The event also highlighted the growing importance of the Indian-Australian community in New South Wales — not only culturally, but economically — with diaspora-led businesses and entrepreneurs continuing to play a key role in strengthening bilateral ties between Australia and India. 

There was strong recognition throughout the event that the Australia–India relationship is built not only on economic and strategic partnerships, but also on deep people-to-people connections, shared values, and a thriving multicultural diaspora community. 

New South Wales is home to one of the most dynamic and fast-growing Indian diaspora communities in Australia, with well-recognised contributions across business, innovation, education, and community leadership that continue to strengthen the social and economic fabric of the state. 

Representatives from business, government, and the diaspora community gathered on the rooftop garden of the iconic NSW Parliament House, creating a vibrant and symbolic setting for conversations that extended beyond celebration — into collaboration, opportunity, and shared future growth. 

Quotes 

Quote attributed to Warren Kirby MP, Co-Chair, NSW Parliamentary Friends of India: 

“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 the NSW Parliament House, building relationships and celebrating culture, is exactly what we need more of during current challenging times.” 

Quote attributed to Irfan Malik, President NSW, Australia India Business Council (AIBC), representing the broader business and industry ecosystem: 

“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’s broader multicultural communities.” 

The event concluded with a shared message of celebration, connection, and gratitude. 

Wishing everyone a very Happy Holi and a meaningful Harmony Week. 

Media Contact 

Suzanne Lawrence M: 0450 991 598