The Benalla Migrants Association held the launch of a children’s storybook, A Benalla Story, at the Benalla Library on Saturday, June 22.
This beautifully illustrated children’s book traces the early migrant experiences in Benalla.
Siva Singh was a local icon from early Benalla who bravely disagreed with the newly formed country, leading to his disenfranchisement and loss of voting rights.
A Benalla Story explores Siva’s life in Benalla, from his arrival in Victoria to the events in newly federated Australia that led to his name being removed from the electoral roll.
This book is the first to present Siva Singh’s story for children in both Punjabi and English.
Attendees enjoyed a bilingual reading of the book by Pavneet Kaur, who read the Punjabi text, and Essie Gunaratne, who read the English text.
Benalla Migrants Association provided treats for attendees, including delicious Indian sweets, after the event.
The event saw attendance from local community members, Sikh leaders from Benalla and Shepparton, and the Consul General of India for Victoria and Tasmania, Dr Sushil Kumar.
Shepparton Malayalee Association performed Chenda Melam at the entrance of the library to welcome attendees to the event.
Chenda Melam means percussion using Chenda, a percussion instrument used in almost all Kerala art forms from the Malabar Coast of India.
The Indian Consul General delivered a speech, reflecting on the relationship Australia has with India, saying that it is important to reflect on the diverse cultural mosaic that enriches this society and makes it vibrant and dynamic.
“The Indian and South Asian communities have a long and storied history in Australia,” Mr Kumar said.
John Hanlon discussed his memories of Siva Singh, and how pleased he was to see the book published and launched.
The project was funded through the community grant program of Tomorrow Today Foundation and Tomorrow Today board member Sally Gamble addressed the gathering and congratulated the project.
BMA volunteer committee members, author Alice Crichton, Parminder Singh and Punarji Gunaratne have worked along with Illustrator Swanrangi Bhave and Punjabi translator Vandana Rani to publish the book.
Benalla Migrants Association, the book's publisher, plans to distribute 200 free copies to libraries, educational institutions, early childhood centres, and community organisations.
For free copies of the book for children’s education programs, please email info@benallamigrants.org.au