Thousands gathered at the Sri Durga Temple, in Rockbank in Melbourne’s West to celebrate the festival of Dussehra on Sunday.
The day-long festivities were marked by the traditional performance of Ram Leela (a play that enacts the Indian mythology Ramayan) and special fireworks.
The highlights of the day also included numerous performances by community groups which included dancers and singers from different age groups.
“We have been practising with our kids for three months for this event. It paid off. It went really well,” said a member of Rajcov, the Rajasthani community of Victoria, that performed a dance number based on Rajasthani songs.
The venue had various stalls of traditional dresses, wares, jewellery on display.
“I have bought juttis (footwear) and earrings for Diwali,” said Sanjana who was attending the event with her family who is visiting her from India.
“This place feels like home. Doesn’t feel like I am in Melbourne,” said Sanjana’s father visiting from Haryana, India.
Crowds thronged to Indian food stalls at the event that was serving Indian delicacies like Chole Bhature, Jalebis, Chaat and Indian street food.
“It is too spicy,” said little Jaiveer.
“I love it,” chipped in Mona, sitting next to him.
The day ended with the burning of Raavan’s effigy and spectacular fireworks.
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