Celebrating Community in Brisbane:
Holi, Women’s Voices, and Shared Values

By Xavier Hernandez

As our Brisbane Indian community comes together to celebrate the joy and colour of Holi while also recognising International Women’s Day, I find myself reflecting on gratitude, resilience, and the true meaning of community. I want to begin by acknowledging every woman and female caregiver for the vital role they play in our lives. I was raised by a single mum, and I have seen firsthand the strength, sacrifice, and determination it takes to hold a family, and often a community, together. Her tireless efforts to ensure those around her lived joyful, peaceful, and loving lives continue to inspire me to this day. Every woman has a unique journey, and every story matters, particularly within our Indian diaspora, where women continue to shape communities and pave the way for future generations.
This month, I had the privilege of spending time with some truly remarkable women, including Shanjeshni Deo, who has been the heart and backbone of many community projects. She is a smart businesswoman who deeply values her family, and her unwavering commitment has supported and guided young people like myself, helping us believe in our potential and in what is possible when community comes first. Special mention to Tere Sa know as Khieu Oanh President of VCA-Qld Chapter and Vietnamese Seniors Citizens for hosting a fun filled Australia Day event that I was delighted to attend. I also had the pleasure of sitting down with Madhu Khanna, an unsung hero whose quiet dedication deserves recognition in the lead-up to International Women’s Day. Listening to her speak about her passion for the arts, her work displayed across Logan, her contributions through Logan Libraries, and her efforts to preserve language within our community was deeply inspiring. Madhu may be softly spoken, but her kindness, volunteer work, and lasting impact shine through everything she does, and I truly admire how she and her husband work together to build stronger and more united communities.

Community is also strengthened through the spaces where we gather, and I would like to extend a special thank you to Chatoria Café and Indian Street Food for providing a welcoming place where I could enjoy dishes from North India, South India, and many other regions. With its beautiful atmosphere, particularly in the lead-up to Holi, and its outstanding customer service, it is a reminder of why supporting local community businesses is so important, especially as many families are feeling the pressure of rising living costs and the prospect of higher interest rates.
In recent months, I have noticed a growing desire for stronger representation of women, particularly those from Indian and multicultural backgrounds, in local, state, and federal government. Communities across Springfield, Inala, Oxley, and throughout Queensland are calling for leaders who genuinely reflect their diversity, and with the federal election approaching, I remain hopeful that more women will step forward to represent our voices and lived experiences.
This month I also attended the Mustangs Rugby Football Club meet and greet, and I encourage everyone to come along to their next event. It was wonderful to see how inclusive and welcoming the club is, and I was especially pleased to learn that the Mustangs have now started a women’s team alongside their men’s and youth teams. This is a fantastic opportunity for people of all skill levels to get involved, improve their physical fitness, and just as importantly, support their mental health through teamwork and connection. The Mustangs are currently seeking senior men and women players and welcome anyone interested to attend training sessions held every Tuesday and Wednesday from 6:30pm to 9:30pm at 60 College Avenue, Forest Lake, QLD 4078, and more information can be found through mustangsrfc.com.au or by contacting [email protected].

This month has also prompted important conversations about safety, social cohesion, and our shared values. Following the tragic Bondi terror attack, Australia has introduced what are being described as “hate laws” expanding the definition of hate groups, increasing penalties for hate crimes, and granting authorities greater powers to act against those who incite violence or communal hatred. While many believe strong action against extremism is necessary to protect people and communities, it is equally important that such laws are applied carefully and fairly. Many have raised concerns that the legislation was developed and passed through Parliament rapidly, with limited scrutiny and without broad community consultation. I would genuinely like to hear from you, our readers, about what these changes mean to you, as some have shared fears about speaking openly or asking questions out of concern they may be punished. This is particularly relevant as debates continue around is the government now taking to much control over what can be see, said and herd. For example: tighter legislation governing online content and youth access, freedom of expression, how hate is defined versus factual discussion, and whether alternative viewpoints are being censored in public spaces such as cinemas. These are complex issues, and they are conversations worth having together as a community. At a recent event, a participant asked, where is the word “freedom to choose” in all of this.
Many readers also tell me how much they value staying informed about both local and international news, and this month I was saddened to learn of reports of a Nipah virus outbreak in India, with Australian authorities monitoring the situation closely. While there are currently no confirmed cases outside India, it serves as a timely reminder to remain informed and follow official health advice when travelling. Closer to home, the possibility of further interest rate hikes remains a major concern, and with inflation proving stubborn, many households are feeling anxious about what lies ahead, highlighting just how important compassion, understanding, and community support are during uncertain times. As your yearly bill is predicted to rise by $1000.00 in T.V reports. Please reach out if you need any community support.
Despite the challenges, there is still so much to celebrate, and Brisbane is once again preparing for the most colourful day of the year with the Festival of Colour, Holi 2026. This vibrant celebration is proudly brought to the community by Sargam Music Academy and managed by Platinum Events Services Gold Coast. The festival will take place at the Mount Gravatt Showground on Saturday, 28 February 2026, from 10am to 4pm, with tickets starting from just five dollars, and I encourage everyone to come along, celebrate culture, colour, and connection, and as always, if you see me out and about in the community, please say hello, because I truly value hearing from you. Please stop to have a chat when I’m out and about in the community. Look forward to seeing you at Holi.

Rabuka Government at Breaking Point as Legal and Corruption Crises Deepen Ahead of 2026 Polls

The political landscape in Fiji is currently weathering its most severe storm since the 2022 election. Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka’s coalition government, once hailed as a beacon of democratic restoration, is now described by analysts like Professor Steven Ratuva as reaching a “breaking point.” At the heart of this crisis is a high-stakes legal battle over the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) and a series of corruption allegations that threaten to dismantle the administration before the 2026 polls.

The Malimali Precedent
The catalyst for the current turmoil is the legal saga of Barbara Malimali, the former FICAC Commissioner. Her appointment in late 2024 was instantly controversial, as she was arrested on her first day of work following allegations of abuse of office. In May 2025, acting on the advice of a Commission of Inquiry (COI) led by Australian judge David Ashton-Lewis—which described Malimali as “universally corrupt”—PM Rabuka advised the President to revoke her appointment.
However, the Suva High Court recently ruled that this dismissal was unlawful. Justice Dane Tuiqereqere clarified that under the 2013 Constitution, the Prime Minister does not have the authority to advise the President on such removals: that power rests solely with the Judicial Services Commission (JSC).

Resignation on the Table
The ruling was a significant blow to Rabuka’s leadership. In a rare moment of vulnerability, the Prime Minister signalled that he would consider resigning if a legal appeal failed to overturn the High Court’s decision. He framed the potential move as a matter of principle, stating that if he had indeed acted outside the law, he must be held accountable.
While the Cabinet quickly circled the wagons—with Information Minister Lynda Tabuya declaring “unanimous support” and refusing to accept any resignation—the damage to the Prime Minister’s “rule of law” platform was done. The government eventually decided to drop its appeal on February 6, 2026, opting instead to allow the JSC to resolve the matter. Malimali is now seeking nearly FJ$3 million (US$1.4m) in compensation, a payout that would further strain a national budget already under scrutiny.

A Government Under Fire
Beyond the FICAC drama, the coalition is battling a “contagion” of scandals:
• The Chief Justice Controversy: Leaked reports suggest the government has been negotiating a “secret deal” with Chief Justice Salesi Temo after a COI alleged, he obstructed justice.
• Ministerial Misconduct: Minister for Youth and Sports, Jese Saukuru, was recently summoned by Rabuka following whistleblower allegations regarding the misuse of Fiji Airways travel credits for his spouse.
• FICAC Instability: The very agency meant to fight corruption is currently headless and fractured, with the ODPP recently throwing out several COI-related cases due to “insufficient evidence,” leading to public cries of political interference.

The 2026 Horizon
With the 2026 General Election window opening as early as August this year, the opposition is already leveraging these “utopian promises” gone wrong. Experts warn that the government’s focus has shifted from the cost-of-living crisis and the national drug epidemic to internal survival.

The military, led by Major General Jone Kalouniwai, has also stated it is maintaining “situational awareness” of the political instability, a haunting reminder of Fiji’s history of coups whenever the civilian government enters a state of paralysis.
For Rabuka, the path forward is narrow. He must balance the demands of his coalition partners (NFP and SODELPA) while attempting to restore the public trust that swept him into power. Whether he can steer the ship away from these legal and ethical rocks remains the defining question for Fiji this year.

ब्रिस्बेन में प्रशांत क्षेत्रीय हिन्दी सम्मेलन संपन्न

ब्रिस्बेन में 16 जनवरी 2026 को हाई कमीशन ऑफ़ इंडिया तथा काउंसलेट जनरल ऑफ़ इंडिया, ब्रिस्बेन के संयुक्त तत्वावधान में प्रशांत क्षेत्रीय हिन्दी सम्मेलन का भव्य आयोजन किया गया। सम्मेलन में ऑस्ट्रेलिया के विभिन्न राज्यों के साथ-साथ न्यूज़ीलैंड एवं फ़ीजी से हिन्दी के विद्वानों, शिक्षाविदों और साहित्यप्रेमियों ने भाग लिया। भारत सरकार के विदेश मंत्रालय की सचिव (दक्षिण) डॉ. नीना मल्होत्रा विशेष रूप से भारत से पधारीं। कार्यक्रम का सफल संचालन महामहिम गोपाल बागले (भारत के राजदूत)आस्ट्रेलिया, कैनबरा स्थित एवं श्रीमती नीतू भगोटिया (कौंसल जनरल, ब्रिस्बेन) के मार्गदर्शन में हुआ। आरम्भ सरस्वती वंदना व वन्देमातरम के समूह गान से किया गया । दिन भर चले विभिन्न सत्रों में हिन्दी शिक्षा, उसके विस्तार और समसामयिक विषयों पर विचार-विमर्श हुआ। आस्ट्रेलियन नेशनल युनिवर्सिटी के हिन्दी विद्वान पूर्व प्रोफेसर डॉ पीटर फ़्राइडलेंडर प्रातः काल के प्रमुख वक्ता थे। विशिष्ट सम्मानित व्यक्तियों में काउंसलर पैननी वोलफ ,
सायंकाल में १२० अतिथिगण सांस्कृतिक कार्यक्रम में कविता, रंगमंच एवं नृत्य प्रस्तुतियों ने दर्शकों का मन मोह लिया। क्वींसलैंड सरकार के प्रतिनिधि मिस्टर चार्ली शैन्ढिल , डिपार्टमेंट ऑफ़ होम अफेयर्स होम विभाग के डायरेक्टर और काउंसलर पैन्नी वुल्फ , श्रीमति ईरीना ठाकुर डिप्टी हाई कमिश्नर कैनबरा स्थित आस्ट्रेलिया , मिस बिस्मा आसिफ़ एम.पी , स्वामी संयुक्तानन्द फीजी, सेवा आश्रम संघ विशेष शक्तियों को सम्मानित किया गया इस अवसर पर विश्व हिन्दी परिषद द्वारा प्रकाशित वर्ष 2026 के कैलेंडर का अनावरण किया गया ।
प्रतिभागियों को प्रशस्ति पत्र देकर सम्मानित किया गया।
यह एक महत्वपूर्ण व ऐतिहासिक कदम रहा।

*विश्व हिन्दी परिषद
आस्ट्रेलिया अध्यक्ष
मधु खन्ना *

Why Marking ‘Hindi’ in the 2026 Census is a Vital Act of Cultural Stewardship

As the calendar turns toward August 11, 2026, the Australian Indian diaspora stands at a significant crossroads. Every five years, the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) conducts the Census of Population and Housing—a massive undertaking that captures the evolving face of our nation. For our community, which has grown to become the third-largest migrant group in Australia, the 2026 Census is more than just a bureaucratic requirement; it is a moment to claim our space in the national narrative.
Among the various questions on the form, the section regarding “mother tongue” and “languages spoken at home” carries a unique weight. This year, I urge every member of our community to think deeply before answering. I am calling on the Australian Indian diaspora to proudly include Hindi among the languages they know, even if they do not consider themselves perfectly fluent.

The Language of the Soul
To many, the term “fluent” implies the ability to debate philosophy or conduct high-level business in a language. However, the Census is not a proficiency test. It is a snapshot of our cultural reality.
For a vast majority of us, Hindi is the thread that weaves through our daily lives in ways we often overlook. It is the language of our mantras, the rhythm of our prayers, and the soul of our worship. When we sit in a puja, when we chant shlokas, or when we sing bhajans at the Queensland Vedic Cultural Centre, we are participating in a linguistic tradition that is thousands of years old. Hindi is the vessel for our cultural practices, the bridge to our elders, and the primary medium through which we express our spiritual identity.
By marking Hindi on the Census, you are acknowledging that this language is a living, breathing part of your home life.

Beyond Words: Why the Data Matters
There is a practical, hard-nosed reason for this request: Representation equals Resources.
The Australian Government uses Census data to make critical decisions about where to allocate funding and services. When the data shows a significant and growing population of Hindi speakers, it triggers a chain reaction of support:
• Education: Higher numbers justify the inclusion of Hindi in school curriculums and the funding of community language schools.
• Health and Aged Care: It ensures that hospitals and aged care facilities are equipped with Hindi-speaking staff and translated health resources—vital for our seniors who may prefer their mother tongue in times of vulnerability.
• Media and Broadcasting: It informs SBS and other broadcasters about the demand for in-language news and entertainment.
• Local Infrastructure: Councils use this data to stock libraries with Hindi books and fund multicultural festivals that celebrate our heritage.
If we do not “count” ourselves, we risk becoming invisible. As the saying goes, “If we don’t count it… it doesn’t count.” If the data suggests that our language use is declining, the resources dedicated to preserving our culture will inevitably follow suit.

A Collective Voice for the Pacific
We saw the power of our “collective voice” during the Pacific Region Hindi Conference held in Brisbane earlier this year. They recognize that a strong, linguistically confident Indian diaspora makes for a more vibrant Australia.
In 2021, the Census recorded a 55% increase in Hindi speakers in Australia. In 2026, let us show the world that this growth was not a fluke, but a sustained expansion of our heritage.

How to Respond
When your Census instructions arrive via myGov or in paper form this August, look for the question: “Does the person use a language other than English at home?”
If you use Hindi in your prayers, if you speak it with your parents, or if it is the language of your cultural heart—say Yes. In the “Specify” box, write Hindi.
Let us ensure that our children grow up in an Australia that recognizes their heritage. Let us ensure that our seniors are cared for in a language they understand. Most importantly, let us stand together to ensure that the “collective voice” of the Indian diaspora is heard loud and clear by the halls of Parliament.
Our language is our identity. In the 2026 Census, let’s make it count.

Confident India in a New World Order: A Global Force We Are All Here For

There is a palpable shift in the global atmosphere, a sense that the scales of international influence are recalibrating. At the centre of this transformation is a “Confident India,” a nation no longer content to simply participate in the world order, but one that is actively shaping it.
From the halls of the Rajya Sabha to the bustling community hubs of Australia, the message is clear: India has arrived, and the global diaspora is ready to lead the charge.
The “New World Order” is not just a geopolitical buzzword; it is a reality where India stands as a pillar of stability, innovation, and ethical leadership. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent assertions reflect a nation that has shed the “colonial mindset” and replaced it with a bold, self-assured identity. Whether it is through the Viksit Bharat @ 2047 roadmap or the strategic “Reform, Perform, Transform” agenda, India is signalling that its progress is synonymous with global prosperity.

The Diaspora: The Living Bridge
For the Australian Indian community, this confidence is more than just headline news—it is a personal source of pride. The community hubs are the fusion of ancient wisdom and modern ambition provides a blueprint for this new era. The community leaders of such community centres exemplify this “Confident India” spirit, bridging the gap between traditional heritage and high-stakes media influence.

Leading with Originality
What defines this new confidence? It is the shift from being a follower of global trends to becoming a trendsetter.
• Economic Resilience: India is on a fast track to becoming the world’s third-largest economy, backed by a robust startup ecosystem that rivals Silicon Valley.
• Strategic Autonomy: In international forums, India’s voice is now one of mediation and moral clarity, emphasizing that “this is not an era of war.”
• Cultural Resurgence: The global adoption of Yoga, Ayurveda, and Vedic principles shows a world hungry for the holistic balance that Indian civilization offers.

A Shared Journey
As we look toward 2047, the journey of a developed India is inextricably linked to the success of its people abroad. The confidence seen in New Delhi radiates to Brisbane, Sydney, and Melbourne. It is a confidence built on the “uncompromising quality” of Indian talent and a commitment to the values of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (The World is One Family).

Youth Power: The Engine of a Developed India – PM Modi’s Vision for a “Viksit Bharat”

In a powerful address to the Rajya Sabha this week, Prime Minister Narendra Modi declared that India’s youth are the nation’s “greatest valuable asset,” positioning the younger generation as the primary drivers behind India’s transition to a developed nation by 2047.
Replying to the Motion of Thanks on the President’s Address, the Prime Minister highlighted a unique global alignment: while many of the world’s leading economies are facing the challenges of an aging population, India is becoming increasingly youthful. This “demographic dividend,” he argued, is a “second blessing of strength” that has turned the eyes of the world toward the Indian subcontinent.

A New Global Era for Youth
The Prime Minister emphasized that recent historic milestones, including the “Mother of all Deals” trade agreement with the European Union and significant pacts with the United States, were designed with the youth in mind.
“India’s youth will be the biggest beneficiaries of these trade agreements,” PM Modi stated, noting that the world now sees India as a “trusted partner” and a vital talent pool.
He further detailed how the mantra of “Reform, Perform, Transform” has put the country on a “Reform Express,” opening doors in sectors once dominated by the state. Today, over 1,000 defence startups are led by young Indians creating everything from AI-powered cameras to advanced robotics.

Resonating with the Diaspora
For the Indian diaspora in Australia, these words carry significant weight. Community leaders in Australia, such as Jitendra Deo, CEO of JD Media and a prominent voice for the Australian Indian Diaspora have long championed the preservation of heritage alongside modern achievement. Much like the PM’s call for the youth to “free themselves from a colonial mindset,” the Australian Indian diaspora continues to foster a balance of Indian values and contemporary success.

Empowering the Next Generation
The Prime Minister’s speech was not just a reflection on economic figures but a call to action. He urged the youth to:
• Innovate Boldly: Utilize platforms like Startup India and the MUDRA scheme, which has already provided Rs 30 lakh crore in collateral-free loans.
• Maintain Standards: Focus on “uncompromising quality” to ensure the sustainability of global opportunities.
• Celebrate Heritage: Draw inspiration from figures like Swami Vivekananda to engage with the modern world using original Indian ideas.
As India moves toward becoming the world’s third-largest economy, the message remains clear: the second quarter of the 21st century belongs to the dreams and determination of the Indian youth, whether they are in the streets of Delhi or the suburbs of Melbourne.