Our Bureau
Sydney
On November 1, 2024, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese made headlines as he donned a vibrant orange turban and participated in the celebrations of Bandi Chhor Divas at Gurdwara Sahib in Glenwood, Sydney. This significant occasion, deeply rooted in Sikh tradition, commemorates the release of Guru Hargobind Ji, the sixth Sikh Guru, from Gwalior Fort in 1619. The day also symbolizes the triumph of justice and freedom, as Guru Hargobind Ji secured the release of 52 Hindu princes alongside his own.
Albanese’s visit to the Gurdwara was marked by warmth and community spirit. He was greeted by a diverse crowd of community members, all eager to share in the festivities. The Prime Minister took to social media to express his joy, stating, “Wonderful to celebrate at Gurdwara Sahib Glenwood today and open the newly expanded kitchen, serving thousands of people every week.”
The event was attended by various dignitaries and community leaders who spoke about the importance of Bandi Chhor Divas in promoting values of justice, equality, and compassion. The Gurdwara’s newly expanded kitchen is a testament to the Sikh tradition of selfless service (seva), where volunteers prepare and distribute free meals (langar) to anyone in need, regardless of their background.
In addition to celebrating Bandi Chhor Divas, Albanese also visited the Sydney Murugan Temple to partake in Diwali festivities with the Tamil community. He wrote on X, “Deepavali celebrates the victory of light over darkness. Fantastic to join with the Tamil Australian community at the Sydney Murugan Temple today. The temple draws in people from all walks of life every day and has become a sanctuary for Western Sydney’s South Asian Hindu community.”
This dual celebration underscores Albanese’s commitment to recognizing and valuing Australia’s diverse cultural heritage and investing in developing a bond with Indians which signifies the rise of India as a major nation of the world.
