22/02/2025
Melbourne Utsav 2025: A Celebration of Love, Service, and Devotion
Melbourne witnessed a spiritually uplifting gathering as Satsang Oceania organised Melbourne Utsav 2025 at St Kilda Town Hall on Saturday, February 8, 2025. The grand event was held to honour Sree Sree Thakur Anukul Chandra and to celebrate the 137th Holy Birth Anniversary of the Supreme Love Lord. The celebration was infused with an atmosphere of devotion, service, and compassion, bringing together a diverse community through songs, dance, chanting, music, and prayers.
The program commenced in the early hours of the day with a morning prayer at Point Cook at 6:30 a.m.. This was followed by a Children’s Satsang at 2:30 p.m. at St Kilda Town Hall, where young devotees actively participated in prayers, devotional songs, storytelling, and Jajon.
A significant highlight of the day was the Mother’s Conference, which brought together women to engage in prayers, devotional music, kirtan, and discussions on the vital role of mothers in shaping families, societies, and the global community. The speakers emphasised the importance of a mother’s nurturing influence in building a great nation and fostering unity.
The evening unfolded with Sangeetanjali, a vibrant cultural performance featuring local and guest singers, who mesmerised the audience with devotional songs, dance, chanting, and instrumental music. The event radiated joy and unity, as devotees came together in a spirit of love and kindness.
The Satsang Adhiveshan (Main Congregation) commenced at 6:30 p.m., marked by heartfelt prayers and speeches from distinguished guests. The event was graced by the presence of Nina Taylor MP, Parliamentary Secretary for Education and Labor MP for Albert Park. Other esteemed guests included Dr Sushil Kumar, Consul General of India, Melbourne, and Mr Tej Krishnan, Consul (HOC, CGO & Consular). The event saw active participation from various communities, including members of the Assamese and Nepali communities in Melbourne. Besides, devotees from New Zealand and various Australian states, including NSW, Northern Territory, ACT, Western Australia, South Australia, and Queensland, actively participated in the celebration, adding to the event's vibrant and diverse atmosphere. Their collective presence underscored the universal appeal of Sree Sree Thakur’s teachings and the inclusive spirit of the celebration.
In her address, Nina Taylor MP expressed her admiration for the teachings of Sree Sree Thakur Anukul Chandra, stating,
“We are fortunate to have come together to embrace the ideals and wisdom of such a great personality. I am truly enjoying this celebration, which fosters love, service, and compassion through songs, dance, chanting, music, and prayers.”
The celebration saw participation from devotees across New Zealand and several Australian states, including New South Wales, Northern Territory, ACT, Western Australia, South Australia, and Queensland. The presence of members from the Asami and Nepali communities in Melbourne, alongside other cultural groups, further reinforced the event’s inclusive and unifying spirit.
The Utsav concluded with Anandabazar, where a free vegetarian dinner (Bhandara) was served, symbolizing the values of generosity and community bonding. The event left attendees spiritually enriched, fostering a renewed commitment to the ideals of love, service, and devotion.
Dr Subhas Nandi, (SPR) from Sydney, delivered the concluding speech with a vote of thanks. He urged everyone to continue the movement, emphasising the importance of carrying forward the teachings of Sree Sree Thakur Anukul Chandra for the betterment of society.
Melbourne Utsav 2025, orchestrated by Satsang Oceania, was a testament to the power of faith in bringing people together. The event not only celebrated the birth anniversary of a revered spiritual leader but also reinforced the timeless values of harmony, compassion, and selfless service, leaving a lasting impact on all who attended.
