With Indians being the second largest migrant group in Australia, it's no surprise that Indian Independence Day is celebrated largely amongst the diaspora. We often hear of a mela (fair), gala dinners or more intimate gatherings amongst close family circles, but for three Melbourne-based Indian women, this year is about encouraging others to observe Indian Independence Day through a different lens.
Priya Ravindra, Gayatri Pradeep and Manpreet Sekhon have chosen to host an event that highlights the intersection of India's independence from British rule (in 1947) with the empowerment of women, plus the handloom industry – a major economic driver for India that primarily employs women, and one that played a role in India's independence movement. With Indian Independence Day on August 15, and National Handloom Day falling on August 7, the trio are hosting a female-led panel and lunch event in Melbourne on August 10.
Gayatri is the founder of A Weaver's Touch, a social enterprise connecting weaver artisans with consumers, particularly through the sale of handloom sarees. When forming the idea to host an Independence Day event this year, she approached fellow entrepreneurs Priya and Manpreet. Priya's business, Punar, draws a very obvious parallel to Gayatri's, as it employs women artisans in India to handcraft sustainable luxury gifts, branded merchandise and homewares. Meanwhile Manpreet is the executive chef of three renowned Indian restaurants in Victoria, including Elchi in Melbourne. The common thread: three driven brown women determined to shake up the entrepreneurial landscape in Australia, while elevating the contributions of Indians to the global economy and cultural landscape.
"Indian Independence Day and National Handloom Day both hold significant meaning for us, representing not only the country's hard-won freedom but also the vibrant cultural tapestry that defines India," Gayatri tells Draw Your Box.
"By organising this event, we wanted to create a platform that highlights the craftsmanship of handloom artisans, the importance of sustainability, and the vital role women play in entrepreneurship and cultural preservation."
Priya Ravindra, Manpreet Sekhon and Gayatri Pradeep. Image Source: Supplied
Priya says she "immediately jumped on the idea" when Gayatri proposed it to her, particularly because "the handloom industry played a crucial role in India's freedom movement and continues to be a major contributor to our culture, heritage, artistry, and economic independence".
Being held at Elchi itself, Manpreet says she "wanted to create an event that not only honours our rich heritage but also provides a platform for dialogue and connection".
Migrating to Australia in 2005, Indian Independence Day has been "a day of immense pride and gratitude" for the chef. She recalls that it's "always been a day of celebration, whether through gatherings with family and friends or by attending community events".
"This year, I wanted to take that celebration to the next level by sharing it with a larger audience through this special event."
So, what will the occasion entail? Apart from the delicious food prepared by Manpreet and her team, attendees can expect a panel discussion moderated by SmartCompany production editor and blogger Mrinaal Datt, and featuring author Nandita Chakraborty, dance teacher Deepa Ponnappan, and lawyer and diversity advocate Molina Asthana. Manpreet will also join the panel discussion, and says "selecting the panelists was a thoughtful process".
"We wanted to bring together individuals who have made significant contributions in their respective fields and who can offer diverse perspectives on the themes of independence, identity, and empowerment," she says.
"We hope they offer rich, insightful conversations around India’s freedom movement, the current India, and the pivotal role women play in preserving and advancing our cultural heritage," adds Priya. "By sharing their experiences and expertise, the panelists will highlight the challenges and triumphs of their journeys, inspire our audience, and foster a deeper appreciation for the interconnectedness of our work."
Many women are known to have shaped the Independence movement in India, and as celebrations now shift to the contemporary achievements of Indian women, Manpreet emphasises that female empowerment should consistently be front of mind.
"Elevating women's voices is essential, not just on Indian Independence Day but every day," she reflects.
"Women have played a pivotal role in India's history and continue to shape its future. By highlighting their contributions and perspectives, we not only honour their achievements but also inspire future generations. This event is an opportunity to amplify those voices and ensure they are heard and celebrated."
More information about the 'Celebration of Indian Heritage & Freedom' event can be found here.