Saturday 2 October was the Eid Day here at Melbourne. Away from relatives, friends and near ones Eid hardly brings the joy that we usually have on Eid. For reasons beyond our control we could not travel to Bangladesh for Eid like other years. Avro could not join us on Eid day as he had some office works. Rozy cooked food for us till early morning. I along with Shuvro went Doncaster Umah mosque for Eid Prayer.
This year Eid in Australia required additional security for some unfortunate incidents arising from the threat of ISIS and Australian involvement in the fight against ISIS. Three Australian Ministers and local MP met us after Eid announcing solidarity with Muslims on the day.
We live far away from the places where Muslims usually live in Melbourne and farther away from Bangladeshis living in Melbourne. Moreover, our car had some problem in its carburetor. So we were forced to stay home and spend time in watching Bangladesh TV Channels early morning shows. Melbourne is four hours ahead than Bangladesh on winter time. However, from 5 October the difference in 5 hours for day light saving is here.
Shuvro planned to attend 40 years anniversary of Deakin University at its Melbourne Campus. The University organized a two day festival on the occasion featuring many fun events for people of all ages. The three hour long program started at 4PM and continued till 7 PM.
Shuvro did his maters from Swinburne University Melbourne Campus .Rozy still goes to Swinburne Croydon Campus for her Language and Literature study. I have some links with Monash University. But we visit Deakin University occasionally for visiting niece of my friend Yazdani. She is doing masters in IT there.
The University campus is only half an hour’s drive from our place. We started a bit late as our target was mainly watching the fireworks. In Australia people loves fireworks .The New Year’s fireworks in all capital cities of Australia draw huge spectators. The one in Sydney harbor is the best in the world.
The Deakin University 40-year celebration featured among others the following:
• Rides
• Face painting
• Roving performers
• Petting farm
• Jumping castle
• Children's entertainment
• Fairy floss
• Popcorn
There was so much of rush for everything that one had to queue for a long time to avail opportunity. People brought necessary facilities to relax on the wide campus and enjoy with family friends. The children liked rides, face painting and food. We spent time taking photographs, moving around and watching a cricket team practicing.
The fireworks started at dusk at around 7PM and lasted for 15 minutes. It was spectacular to say the least. The soothing luxury of colors in the dark sky made all cheer. All of us in our cameras took several lovely photographs. Shuvro captured it on Video.
On the Eid Day in Bangladesh today (Monday), we think it can be our Eid Gift to our readers there.
BDST: 0920 HRS, OCT 6, 2014