Bringing Indian tradition to Melbourne

When we think about relocating, our focus is often on how a new country can enhance the lifestyle of those that are moving. What we sometimes do not pay attention to, however, is the subtle ways in which people relocating from other parts of the world enrich the culture of the country to which they move.

The meeting and blending of cultures makes for an interesting and dynamic way of life, and as Australia continues to forge its identity on the world’s stage it is constantly benefiting from the diverse backgrounds from which its migrants come.

The story of Nandini Shanbhag and her family and their move to Australia begins with the same doubts that all migrants have. Nandini was most concerned about how she would make friends and meet people. She was nervous about how she would cope with the differences, wondered whether she would miss her lifestyle back at home and worried about whether she would be able to pass on her love of Indian dancing to her daughter without the familiar classes she was used to at home.

Nandini’s husband Shripad had come to Australia to take up a senior role, and Nandini knew she would find herself in a situation where her husband was often called upon to work long hours requiring regular travel interstate and overseas.

At first the prospect seemed daunting, but the family saw the opportunities before them and saw that Australia offered a better lifestyle. What surprised Nandini as they settled into their new life was how easily she assimilated and how her natural friendliness endeared her to those around her.

Also surprising was how interested Australians were in her background, customs and traditions. She found that within Australia there were opportunities to continue her Indian dancing classes with her daughter Sonali.

Cosmopolitan Melbourne cherishes its reputation, and is proud that the different nationalities that call Melbourne home infuse the city with infinite variety. The most popular streets in Melbourne are testimony to the extent to which different nationalities are represented, as every imaginable cuisine is enjoyed by Melbournians. Festivals and traditions from around the world are also played out regularly in venues throughout the city, and so Nandini discovered that as she adopted the customs and traditions of her new country she could also enjoy these of her country of origin.

Moomba is one of the biggest outdoor festivals in Australia, and is held in Melbourne. The word ‘Moomba’ is said to have come from an Aboriginal word meaning ‘lets get together and have fun’. Nandini was soon dancing in Melbourne alongside dancers from all over the world. Bollywood fever has swept Australia, the Indian dancing concerts are sold out and not only are Nandini and her daughter continuing traditions, they are also bringing something special to their new home.

Story provided by Elite Executive Services