A Convergence of Cultures and Oceans
The atmosphere at VOCO Brisbane was one of reverence and shared purpose. The proceedings began with the traditional lighting of the lamp and a soulful rendition of Saraswati Vandana. In a moving tribute to history, the delegates joined in a collective singing of Vande Mataram, celebrating the 150th anniversary of the song that once unified a nation and now unites a global diaspora.
The event was graced by high-level dignitaries, including:
• Neena Malhotra, Secretary (South), Ministry of External Affairs, India.
• Gopal Baglay, High Commissioner of India to Australia.
• Neetu Bhagotia, Consul General of India in Brisbane.
• Consul General Bhagotia welcomed the delegates, describing the gathering as a “living bridge” between cultures. She emphasized that for the diaspora in the Pacific, Hindi is not just a language of the past but a vibrant tool for future connection.
The Three Pillars of Progress
Secretary Neena Malhotra set the tone for the day by identifying three strategic priorities for the Pacific region:
1. Preservation: Ensuring the linguistic heritage is passed to the next generation.
2. Outreach: Utilizing modern technology and education to expand Hindi’s reach.
3. Collaboration: Creating a unified network between institutions in Australia, New Zealand, and Fiji.
She famously quoted poet Harivansh Rai Bachchan, reminding the audience that “the destination can be reached even by wandering; only those who never leave home are truly lost,” encouraging the diaspora to confidently carry their language into their new homes.
Deep-Dive: Four Thematic Sessions
The core of the conference consisted of four panel discussions that addressed the practical challenges and triumphs of the language.
1. The Role of Diaspora Institutions
Representatives from Fiji shared moving stories of how Hindi survived the indentured labour era, evolving into “Fiji Hindi” while maintaining its classical roots.
2. Education and the Youth Gap
A major focus was the “Education Gap.” Educators from New Zealand and Australia discussed the need for better resources and certified teachers to help children of the diaspora learn Hindi in a way that feels relevant to their lives in the West.
3. Technology and Artificial Intelligence
Following the theme of the 12th World Hindi Conference, the Brisbane event explored how AI can be used to archive traditional knowledge and provide interactive learning tools for students.
4. Regional Perspectives
Panellists highlighted that the “Pacific Voice” is unique. Unlike Hindi spoken in Delhi, Pacific Hindi is flavoured by the local environment, creating a transnational version of the language that is inclusive and evolving.
Civilizational Continuity
The valedictory address was delivered by Swami Sanyuktanand, President of the Fiji Seva Ashram Association and a Pravasi Bharatiya Samman recipient. His speech focused on the spiritual and civilizational continuity that language provides. He reminded the audience that while borders might change, the “collective voice” of Hindi remains a constant source of strength.
The evening concluded with a Gala Dinner, where the community’s literary contributors were honoured. The event was described by attendees as a “spectacular success,” reinforcing the bond between the Pacific nations and their Indian heritage.
The Brisbane Legacy
The January 16 event has left a legacy. It didn’t just celebrate a language; it created a roadmap. From the corridors of the Consulate in Milton to the classrooms of New Zealand and the sugar-belt towns of Fiji, the “collective voice” found in Brisbane is now louder and more unified than ever before.
As the community looks toward the 2026 elections in Fiji and continued growth in Australia, the strength found in their mother tongue remains the bedrock of their success.
