Australia, NZ Rajasthan Associations Come Together To Celebrate Gangaur

Rajasthan Kutumb of Victoria (RAJKOV) has unveiled its plans for Gangaur 2024, set to take place on April 20, 2024 at Caulfield Racecourse in Melbourne's lively Jewish community. This year's Gangaur festival promises to blend Hindu customs, Jewish warmth, and the artistic talent of Muslim performers, creating a narrative of unity that transcends boundaries.

Beyond being a celebration of Rajasthani culture, Gangaur 2024 aims to strengthen the relationship between Rajasthan associations in Australia and New Zealand. The Rajasthan Association of New Zealand has been invited to participate in this event, marking a significant step towards preserving Rajasthani heritage and culture.

Reema Sharma, chairperson and founder of the Rajasthan Association of New Zealand, expressed her excitement about this collaboration. She shared that their association, which started as a small family group to promote Rajasthani culture, has grown steadily since its official registration in 2022.

"Being invited by the Rajasthani association in Australia is a big step for our association as well. It would be a good learning experience for the Rajasthan Association NZ," said Reema Sharma in an interview with The Indian Weekender.

Gangaur, scheduled for April 20, 2024 is a festival dedicated to Goddess Gauri, symbolising purity, virtue, and devotion. Rooted in Rajasthan's culture, this festival celebrates the strength and resilience of women, highlighting their achievements across different cultures.

The festival will feature performances by Batool Begam and Anwar Hussain, renowned artists showcasing Rajasthani folk music. Batool Begam, the only female Maand singer, is breaking barriers and inspiring aspiring female artists. Her collaboration with Anwar Hussain, known for blending traditional and contemporary music, underscores the innovative spirit of Rajasthani music.

Gangaur 2024 serves as a platform for dialogue, understanding, and empowerment. By hosting the event in an area known for its strong Jewish heritage and featuring pioneering Muslim artists, RAJKOV aims to promote messages of peace, cooperation, and gender equality.

Reema Sharma also mentioned to IWK that the Gangaur Pooja was held last Thursday in New Zealand and although small, it was a good experience for people who joined to revive the Rajasthani culture.

"It is fortunate for us that we will be able to attend the pooja again in Australia," Reema said.

According to Reema, the Rajasthan Kutumb of Victoria and Rajasthan Association of New Zealand have also signed a Memorandum of Understanding to promote and support the culture, language, and heritage of Rajasthan.