Up to 10,000 people are expected to attend the colourful 10-day 'Siva Mahotsavam 2025 Festival', which begins in Helensburgh on Monday, February 17.
Mahotsavam means 'great festival' and the Sri Venkateswara Temple in Helensburgh will come to life as one of the nation's most elaborate Shiva multi-day festivals will combine dance, music, food and cultural activities.
"We expect over 10,000 devotees from all over Australia to attend, with people also travelling from Fiji, Malaysia and Singapore," said the director of the Venkateswara Temple, Subra Iyer.
"The most important and joyful part of the festival is the daily procession of Lord Shiva, along with the Great Goddess Parvati, Sri Ganesha and others.
"During the course of the festival each day, Lord Shiva parades outside the temple, mounted on various celestial vehicles accompanied by the congregation of devotees amid much fanfare."
Subra says the highlight of the annual festival will take place on Wednesday, February 26 when the chariot festival takes place.
"More than 5000 devotees are expected to witness the Bhaktas pulling the chariot around the temple and there will be many other elaborate rituals carried out for the well-being of the community."
Subra and the team of volunteers organising the festival welcomed the support of a $15,000 NSW Government multicultural grant through the Stronger Together Festival and Event Program.
Member for Heathcote Maryanne Stuart is encouraging the broader community to turn out in big numbers to experience this year's Mahotsavam.
"These events give us the opportunity to celebrate our unique heritage and build stronger connections between people from all walks of life. It's important that we continue to support local initiatives like these, as they not only celebrate culture, but also provide a sense of belonging for everyone in the community," Maryanne said.
The NSW Government's multicultural festival and events grants program provided $525,000 to be shared statewide.
"By supporting local community groups, we are investing in the future of our state," said NSW Minister for Multiculturalism Steve Kamper.
"These grassroots festivals and events create a space where everyone can come together to celebrate what makes us unique, while strengthening the bonds that hold us together. I'm looking forward to seeing the positive impact these events will have on social cohesion and community spirit."
No entry fee applies to the Helensburgh festival but a dress code (no shoes) applies for those wanting to enter the temple. The event will run from Monday, February 17 to Thursday, February 27.
For all the details, visit www.svtsydney.org
