Lucknow, 22 June (HS): During the World Peace & Bharat

Gaurav Awards Ceremony 2026, the historic Queen's Hall at Parliament of

Victoria in Melbourne was filled with amazing celebrations of global peace,

cultural diplomacy, and excellence. The prominent event gathered together

notable leaders, politicians, diplomats, and achievers from around the world to

celebrate those who have made significant achievements in their respective

disciplines while promoting the spirit of peace and compassion.

Rakesh Kumar Shukla, India's Distinguished Guest and

Cultural Ambassador, made a compelling and thought-provoking presentation

underlining the country's eternal principle of Vasudhaiva

Kutumbakam — The World is One Family. Addressing the august gathering,

Shukla emphasized India's long-standing commitment to global welfare and peace,

noting that in an age of violence, instability, and division, mankind must

rediscover the ideals of unity, harmony, and mutual respect.

India remains a light of hope, with its message of

Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, a philosophy that sees the entire world as one family.

He believes that the world needs this perspective now more than ever. In terms

of venue significance, Shukla regarded Queen's Hall as a symbol of democracy,

discussion, tolerance, and public service. He pointed out that the building

served as Australia's Federal Parliament from 1901 to 1927, making it more significant

that Indian-origin achievements were being honored in such a historic

institution.

Shukla stressed shared democratic principles, a dedication

to innovation, education, entrepreneurship, and human dignity as the factors

that bind India and Australia. He recognized the benefits of the Economic

Cooperation and commerce Agreement (ECTA), which has increased collaboration in

commerce, technology, healthcare, education, energy, and research.

He also commended the Indian diaspora in Australia, calling

it a Living Bridge between the two countries. Thousands of

Indian-origin professionals, including physicians, scientists, educators,

engineers, entrepreneurs, and public officials, continue to make major

contributions to Australia's prosperity and multicultural success. Shukla

emphasized Melbourne's status as a worldwide cultural hub, calling it an

idea where history and modernity walk together. He also mentioned

Melbourne's designation by UNESCO as a City of Literature, which

reflects the city's global status as a hub of creativity, diversity, and innovation.

Shukla congratulated the Bharat Gaurav Award honorees, stating that genuine

success is more than just personal achievement; it is also a duty to society,

nation, and mankind. He congratulated the recipients for advancing India's

worldwide reputation via their leadership, service, knowledge, and professional

achievement.

Shukla highlighted one of the most memorable moments of his speech: The

ultimate power of civilizations is not found in their armies or wealth, but in

the individuals who brighten humanity's path through knowledge, character, and

service. He closed by urging India and Australia to work more closely together

to build a future based on knowledge, innovation, peace, and human welfare. He

repeated Swami Vivekananda's famed message of universal acceptance and

tolerance, stating that these ideals remain the foundation of long-term global

peace.

Several prominent dignitaries attended the occasion, including: Steve

Dimopoulos, Minister of Economic Growth and Jobs, and Minister of Sport and

Events, Victoria (Chief Guest), Meng Heang Tak, Member of Legislative Assembly,

Australian Labor Party,

Vivienne Nguyen AM, Chairperson, Distinguished Diplomat Kaushaliya Vaghela,

Pioneering Indian-origin Parliamentarian.

The celebration included Pradeep Tiwari, the first Indian Councillor and Mayor

of Maribyrnong, and Dr. Rattan Virk, a Member of Parliament. Dr. Maheshpuri Ji

recited the Hanuman Chalisa, and Shri Suresh Mishra Ji introduced the Bharat

Gaurav Award recipients from throughout the world. Saumyata Mishra beautifully

anchored the event.

The World Peace & Bharat Gaurav Awards Ceremony 2026 was a memorable

occasion that celebrated worldwide unity, Indian history, multicultural

understanding, and the universal message of peace. The evening reinforced the

rising strength of India-Australia relations, as well as the worldwide Indian

community's vital contributions to creating a more peaceful and prosperous

world.

Hindusthan Samachar / Abhishek Awasthi