Category: Events

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Events

Your complete Diwali Itinerary!

Post author By Helen Tsantikos
Post date 10/10/2022

Diwali may still be two weeks away, but the festivities have already begun! For those unable to travel home to India this Diwali, fret not: there’s plenty of fun and excitement to be had right here in Melbourne! We’ve compiled the ultimate Diwali itinerary for you, jam packed with entertainment, amazing food, fun activities for the whole family and much, much more. Let’s come together this Diwali and banish all darkness from our lives, and allow positivity, love and prosperity to shine through!

Friday 14^th October – Diwali Cruise
Where?: Lady Cutler Melbourne Showboat, Pier VH08, 131 Harbour Esplanade Docklands
What time?: 7:30 pm – 11:30 pm

Let’s kick things off with a beautiful cruise! Enjoy live music, dancing, and delicious food and drinks all while sailing on an elegant cruise ship! With so much masti and excitement, this is the perfect way to kick off your Diwali celebrations!

Saturday 15^th October – Festival of Lights – Melbourne Diwali Fireworks
Where?: Footscray Park, Footscray
What time?: 4pm – 9:30pm

This free event will dazzle and delight your family with a beautiful Diwali themed fireworks display! There will also be plenty of carnival rides, market stalls and food trucks to explore, as well as live performances and dancing. Fun for the whole family, this event is a must visit on your Diwali itinerary!

For more information about this event, click here.

Sunday 16^th October – Northern Diwali 2022
Where?: City of Whittlesea, 25 Ferres Boulevard, South Morang
What time?: 12pm – 10pm

Live in the far north and don’t feel like travelling all the way to the city centre for some Diwali fun? We’ve got you covered! Northern Diwali, held in South Morang, will feature loads of festivities and excitement with live DJs, fireworks, Bollywood dancing, rides, food stalls and much more! Trust us – you don’t want to miss this one!

For more information about this event, click here.

Tuesday 18^th October – Diwali Rangoli
Where?: Brunswick Library, Brunswick
What time?: 4pm – 5pm

The kids are gonna love this one! Get together with the family and make some colourful sand rangolis on sticky templates to take home! Starting at 4pm, this event is perfect for primary to even high school aged students to experience a fun yet traditional activity after school.

For more information about this event and registration, click here.

Friday 21^st October – Diwali Gala Family Dinner & Dance
Where?: Receptions at Sapphire, 11 Soden Road, Bangholme, Springvale
What time?: 6:30pm – 11:30pm

Experience the festivities of Diwali with sophistication and class at the Diwali Gala Family Dinner & Dance! Offering a sumptuous three-course banquet with unlimited drinks, as well as live entertainment, games and fireworks, this incredible event is surely not to be missed! Be sure to dress in your finest sari and sherwani, as this event has a dress code of Indian attire.

For more information about this event and booking, click here.

Saturday 22^nd October – Diwali 2022 Cruise + Diwali @ Docklands
Where?: 111 Merchant Street, Docklands
What time?: 7pm – 11pm

After a sold out event last year, Victoria Star Cruises is back with a bigger and better Diwali cruise! Enjoy a delicious Indian buffet as well as top Bollywood dance numbers and DJ music all night, all while sailing with the wind in your hair. Don’t miss the fun and festivities and book yourself in today!

For more information about this event and booking tickets, click here.

Sunday 23^rd October – Diwali Brunch
Where?: Horn Please, 167 St Georges Rd, Melbourne
What time?: 12pm – 3pm

A bottomless brunch with a Diwali theme? Yes please! Focusing on Indian food with a twist, Horn Please is holding a special brunch where you can sample some unconventional yet delicious Indian cuisine in a fun and chill atmosphere with your family. This is one event that foodies don’t want to miss!

For more information about this event and booking, click here.

Saturday 29^th October – Victorian Festival of Diwali
Where?: Federation Square, Melbourne
What time?: 10am – late

Looking for the biggest and boldest Diwali celebration in all of Victoria? This is it!
After 2 years, Celebrate India’s Victorian Festival of Diwali is finally back, bigger and better than ever! With tons of market stalls to explore, as well as traditional and contemporary live music and dance, arts and crafts, games, henna painting and a bustling bazaar full of authentic Indian street food, wrapping up with a spectacular fireworks display on the Yarra River, this is the quintessential Diwali event that you won’t want to miss! Best of all, we will be there as well! Come visit us and spin our wheel for a chance to win numerous prizes!

For more information about this event, click here.

Sunday 30^th October – 21^st Diwali Fair
Where?: Springers Leisure Centre, 400 Cheltenham Rd, Keysborough
What time?: 11:30 am – 9pm

What better way to finish up your Diwali celebrations than with an exciting fair? Experience hours of non-stop entertainment with DJ music, dance performances, and singing, as well as rides, food trucks, variety stalls and much more! With tons of family-friendly fun for kids and adults of all ages to enjoy, end this Diwali with a bang and add this event to your itinerary!

For more information about this event, click here.

With our excitement-packed Diwali itinerary, the fun will never stop this October! Check out all of these fantastic events and have a blast celebrating this Diwali together with your loved ones!
We hope to see you there!

It’s true – celebrating Diwali without your loved ones near feels incomplete. So why not book yourself a flight to India or book a trip for your loved ones to come visit you here in Melbourne, so you can enjoy all these fun festivities together? Check out our Flight Deals for the month of October and get yourself booked in to see your loved ones today!

Find more Flight Deals and fly home in time for Diwali now at: Click here
We will see you there and we wish you and your families early blessings for Diwali!

Melbourne to Delhi|Qantas– Singapore Airlines (Return) — Flights from Melbourne to Delhi

Delhi India — Flights from Sydney to Delhi

Visit us now at Gaura travel : and let us provide you with your best way home.

Sources
Diwali 2022: Your ultimate guide for events in Australia | SBS Gujarati
Diwali 2022 Events & Parties In Melbourne | AllEvents.in
Victorian Festival of Diwali – Fed Square, Melbourne Australia
AIII DIWALI MELA 2022 Tickets | Eventbrite

Tags Australia, diwali 2022, India, Melbourne, Sydney

Events

Get Tickled Pink with Gaura Travel this Diwali

Post author By Helen Tsantikos
Post date 28/09/2022

For many of us, Diwali has been an occasion for celebration, festivity and splendour. For many others though, it comes down to the significance of the lamp itself. A lamp of hope, spreading its light of positivity to those living in moments of darkness.

Breast Cancer is one cause of such darkness. As the world’s most prevalent cancer, the World Health Organisation has estimated that in 2020 roughly 7.8 million women have been affected by breast cancer in the last 5 years alone.

For us at Gaura Travel, it has always been about going the extra mile. After a collaborative exercise with our staff, we decided to support the National Breast Cancer Foundation in the important work they do and make Diwali more meaningful.

September Special

For the month of September, Gaura Travel will be donating $1 for every ticket purchased to the National Breast Cancer Foundation.

This means that together, you, the community and us, can make a difference. We know that Diwali is a special occasion, where loved ones get together to celebrate this momentous festival. By booking your tickets with us, you not only stand to celebrate Diwali with loved ones but can also contribute through us to an organisation that the world needs.

Why this is important to us

Over the last 15 years, we at Gaura Travel have touched many lives and has been part of numerous stories of love, reunition and families. We make it our business to help families stay happy and healthy together.

It is critical to provide public health education to improve awareness among women of the signs and symptoms of breast cancer. The importance of early detection and treatment, when breast cancer is first suspected, plays a big role in treatment and recovery.

The National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF) is Australia’s leading national body funding world-class, game-changing breast cancer research. Each day, 9 Australians lose their lives to breast cancer. They receive no government funding and need continued support to change the statistics – which is why Gaura Travel has made it a business priority to support their great work and facilitate much needed research.

Talk To Us

Remember this special initiative will only last till the end of September, so go ahead and call us! We would be happy to share more details about our initiative. Our friendly staff look forward to talking to you. Light every lamp this Diwali, knowing that you and Gaura Travel are together trying the very best to light up lives.

For this Festival Season, we are here to bring you to your loved ones back in India. We know that without having your family and loved ones by your side, your Diwali simply won’t be complete. That’s why we offer numerous Flight Deals to reunite with your loved ones and to celebrate Festival Season together. Join in the fight against breast cancer and book your flight home with us today!
Find more festival season flight offers now at: Our flight deals

We will see you there and we wish you and your families early blessings for Diwali!

Visit us now at: Gaura Travel and let us provide you with your best way home.

Sources
Breast Cancer – World Health Organization
Breast Cancer Stats – National Breast Cancer Foundation
Diagnosis – Stage and Types – National Breast Cancer Foundation

Tags Australia, Breast Cancer research, India, Melbourne, National Breast Cancer Foundation, Pink Diwali, Sydney

Events

Nine days, nine avatars – The nine days of Navratri

Post author By Helen Tsantikos
Post date 26/09/2022

Shardiya Navratri, or the nine days of worship of Goddess Durga, starts today! Running until the 5^th of October, Indians all over the world will join to celebrate each of the nine different forms of the Goddess Durga over nine days. During Navratri, it is believed that whoever worships Goddess Durga with pure heart and devotion will find prosperity, happiness, peace and joy, as Goddess Durga abolishes all evils and bad vibes in their lives. As this is one of the most auspicious festivals among Hindus, according to the Hindu calendar, this festival is celebrated twice a year, with Chaitra Navratri taking place in Spring, while Shardiya Navratri is celebrated in Autumn to rejoice the victory of good over evil.

During Navratri, devotees fast for nine days to earn Goddess Durga’s blessings, and on the last day, they break their fast with a puja. There are two mythical stories related to this festival; the first tale depicts Goddess Durga slaying a demon named Mahishasura, who was known as an evil demon creating and spreading terror in the world. It is said that Goddess Durga was born to defeat Mahishasura, and after nine consecutive days of fierce battle, on the tenth day Goddess Durga achieves victory over Mahishasura by piercing his chest with her ‘Trident’, while he takes the form of a buffalo.

According to the second tale, Lord Ram worshipped Goddess Durga for nine days before his battle with Ravana to save his mother Sita from Lanka. Goddess Durga was pleased with Ram’s devotion, and on the tenth day of battle between Ram and Ravana, Ram finally defeated Ravana and conquered Lanka, which is celebrated as Dussehra on the 5^th of October.

Let’s learn more about the nine forms of Navratri Devi, known as the nine avatars of Goddess Durga, and how devotees honour and celebrate their benevolence.

The nine avatars of the Goddess Durga

Goddess Shailputri

Navratri begins with worship of the Goddess Shaliputri, who is known as the daughter of mountains and often found in the colour of white. She is often depicted holding a Trishul in her one hand and a lotus flower in the other, while riding on a white bull named ‘Nandi’. This avatar of Goddess Durga represents a healthy life and on this day, devotees offer pure desi ghee, as well as food made with ghee to earn her blessings for a healthy long life.

Goddess Brahmacharini

On the second day of Navratri, devotees worship the Goddess Brahmacharini, who is symbolized as the mother of devotion and reparation. This form represents the Goddess Parvati while in deep meditation for years to gratify Lord Shiv. She is depicted wearing white clothes with a chanting rosary called ‘rudraksha mala’ in her right hand and a kamandalu in her left hand. By offering foods made of sugar, devotees pray for her blessings for loyalty, wisdom and knowledge.

Goddess Chandraghanta

On the third day, devotion is paid to the Goddess Chandraghanta, who is known as the avatar of the destroyer of demons. She is depicted with having ten hands, nine of them holding a trident, mace, bow, arrow, lotus, sword, bell and a waterpot, whereas the tenth hand remains in Abhay Mudra to bless her disciples. She was given the name Chandraghanta due to the curved moon on her forehead and is often depicted riding a tiger. She is often found in royal blue and her devotees believe that by offering kheer, she would take away their sorrows and pains.

Goddess Kushmanda

The fourth day of Navratri is devoted to Goddess Kushmanda, also known as Goddess of the Cosmic Egg. She is known to have eight hands and is often depicted riding a lion. Her devotees believe that she created the world with her divine and radiant smile. During this day, her devotees offer her favorite food, malpua, to worship the happy manifestations of Goddess Durga.

Goddess Skandamata

On the fifth day of Navratri, devotees pay worship to the Goddess Skandamata, also known as Panchami or Goddess of Motherhood and Children. She is depicted having four arms, two of them holding a lotus and the other two holding the sacred kamandalu, as well as a bell. She is also depicted having three eyes and a bright appearance. She is often shown riding a lion and carrying her son Lord Kartikeya or Skanda on her lap. Her favorite colour is green and her devotees pray for love by offering bananas, which is known as her favorite food.

Goddess Katyayani

The sixth day of Navratri represents Goddess Durga’s Shakti form, who is known as the Goddess Katyayani or the Goddess of Warriors. She is often depicted riding on a lion, with her four arms wielding a sword, shield, lotus and trident, respectively. Grey is her chosen colour and by offering honey and prasad, her devotees pray for her blessings on diminishing all evil around them.

Goddess Kalaratri

The seventh day is devoted to the fiercest form of Goddess Parvati, known as Kalaratri or Kali. As the legendary story goes, she sacrificed her fair skin complexion, becoming dark skinned to kill the demons Shumbha and Nishumbha. She is depicted riding on a donkey with three of her four arms wielding a sword, trident and noose. Her fourth arm can be found on Abhaya and Varada Mudra, to bless her devotees. Orange is known to be her favorite colour, and her devotees pay worship to her by offering jaggery as prasad to get her blessings.

Goddess Mahagauri

On the eighth day of Navratri, devotees dedicate their worship to the four-handed immortal Goddess Mahagauri, who is known to have the power to fulfill her devotees’ wishes. She is often depicted riding on a white elephant and holding a Trishul and damru in her hands. She is known to be fond of the colour of peacock green and her devotees offer coconut to her to pray for all their dreams to come true.

Goddess Siddhidhatri

The last day of Navratri is celebrated as the day the Goddess Durga was bestowed with her last avatar, the Goddess Siddhidhatri, as a symbol of perfection. She is known as the Goddess of Giving and Grants and is depicted having four arms, each one holding a mace, discus, book and a lotus respectively. Pink is known to be her favorite colour, and devotees pay worship to her by offering sesame seeds, while praying for safety and security from all bad vibes and evils around them.

Navratri is not only about taking all evils away from your life, but also, it’s the season to allow your body to detox all negative energies around you. Therefore, this Navratri fasting season, pay your gratitude to the Goddess Durga, while adding more positive energies to your life.

For this Festival Season, we are here to bring you to your loved ones back in India. We know that without having your family and loved ones by your side, your Navratri will not be complete. That’s why we offer numerous Flight Deals to reunite with your loved ones and to celebrate Festival Season together!
Find more festival season flight offers now at: Our flight deals
We will see you there and we wish you and your families a blessed Navratri!

Visit us now at: Gaura Travel and let us provide you with your best way home.

Sources
Shardiya Navratri 2022: Navratri Significance, History And Navratri Devi Names | India Times
Nine days, nine avatars of Goddess Durga: Significance behind each Navaratri day explained | Economic Times
Worship the Nine Forms of Maa Durga On The Nine Days of Navratri | HerZindagi

Tags Australia, India, Melbourne, Navratri, Sydney

Events

10 Navratri recipes you shouldn’t miss!

Post author By Helen Tsantikos
Post date 19/09/2022

The nine days of worship to Goddess Durga, starting on 26^th September and running until 5^th October, is the best time to celebrate the blessings and good vibes for peace, happiness and prosperity for your family and loved ones! It is believed that whoever worships Goddess Durga with pure heart and devotion will have all troubles taken out of their lives, while finding peace and joy to cherish.

On this auspicious season, as you worship nine different forms of the Goddess Durga, celebrate the Shardiya Navratri or the victory of good over evil with delicious Navratri Vrat recipes after observing your fast. Traditionally, in this is the auspicious period, most Hindus keep away from alcohol and non-vegetarian food, as well as from grains, onion and garlic. Devotees choose to fast in this manner as a way of paying gratitude to the Goddess Durga and gives them a chance to get back to their roots and deviate from the daily goings-on.

As Navratri 2022 is just around the corner, let’s check out the 10 most popular dishes that we can prepare for this Navratri!

Sabudana Khichdi

Sabudana, more commonly known as sago, is processed plant starch extracted from the cassava root. High in carbohydrates, it’s a perfect energy-boosting meal, ideal for fasting. Made with sago, peanuts, curry leaves and mild spices, Sabudana Kichdi is classified as one of the best fasting foods commonly eaten during Navratri by the traditional Hindu community anytime, whether it’s for breakfast or a light dinner.

Kuttu Ka Dosa

If you are a dosa fan, this is one of the Navratri recipes that you don’t want to miss! Also known as ‘Falahari Dosa’ or ‘Vrat ka Dosa’, this dish is a great food option for people who avoid eating kuttu or buckwheat in fried pooris or pakoras. Quick to prepare and gluten-free, this meal is widely considered as a great dietary option, with the delicious potato filling providing a good source of protein, iron and zinc. Cooking up this crisp dosa with mint and coconut chutney would make anyone’s day!

Singhare Ke Atte Ka Samosa

Spending the evening of Navratri without enjoying these delicious samosas would simply be incomplete! This is the best tea-time snack to enjoy, with the goodness of a Navratri twist, while fasting. Singhare ke atte ka samosa is a crisp, triangle shaped snack prepared with water chestnut flour, arrowroot powder, spiced chironji, and sendha namak, along with many more spices. You can enjoy this mouth-watering snack with coriander chutney and experience many health benefits including low calorie consumption, low stress levels, reduction in blood pressure and more.

Aloo ki Kadhi

Soak in this delicious, yummy kadhi with potato pieces and soothe your taste buds! Aloo ki kadhi is a delightful curry made with potatoes, chilies, singhare ka atta and many spices, making it a great lunch for the Navratri festival. Make your Navratri more special and healthier while fasting with this delicious curry.

Makhana Kheer

Who doesn’t love eating festival desserts, especially on Navratri? Makhana Kheer is one of the most popular sweet dishes in the Navratri feast. This low-fat sweet is especially popular during fasting, making it the perfect dessert to indulge in. Not only served as dessert after a great dinner, Makhana Kheer is also offered as a prasad for the pooja. This yummy dessert, made with milk, sugar, makhana or puffed lotus seeds, chopped pistachios and almonds with cardamom powder, is the perfect dish to fulfil your sweet payasam cravings.

Banana Walnut Lassi

This creamy yogurt drink with walnuts, banana and honey will make your Navratri day a healthier and more energized one! This nourishing drink can be easily made at home and consumed as a sweet, chilled beverage while fasting during Navratri. Boost your energy for whole day with a banana walnut Lassi!

Vratwale Chawal ka Dhokla

Full of flavour, this gluten-free delicacy is a perfect accompaniment to any Navratri feast! Vratwale ka dhokla or Sama ke Chawal ka Dhokla is a healthy and delicious steamed cake made with little millet, tapioca pearls, as well as tempered whole red chilies, cumin, ghee and curry leaves. Spongy and light with amazing flavours, this recipe is a must have for your Navratri feast. Paired with some vrat ki chutney, you would find it hard not to have an extra piece on your plate this feast!

Kebab-e-Kela

Have you ever tried spiced, vegetarian banana kebabs, flavored with ginger, coriander, green chili and aromatic spices? If not, this is the perfect time to try this delicious festival snack, that melts in your mouth with every bite.

Vratwale Paneer Rolls

Grated paneer with potatoes, sendha namak, spices and some raisins to add sweetness, all pan fried together with ghee. Aren’t these crisp, golden-brown rolls making your mouth water? These tasty paneer rolls are just one of the delicious recipes that you can serve as a mid-day snack during this Navratri festival. Enjoy this delicious treat with a sprinkle of mint leaves and chaat masala!

Vratwale Khatte Meethe Aloo

Sweet and sour in one perfect dish! Vratwale Khatte Meethe Aloo, made with potatoes cooked with a hint of lemon and chilies, is one of the most special and delicious fasting dishes that you’ll never want to miss from your Navratri feast bucket list. This dish offers a great balance of flavors, giving your taste buds an irresistible experience!

Navratri is not only about taking the troubles away from your life, but also allowing your body to detox all negative energies around you. Together, let’s pay gratitude to the goddess Durga this Navratri fasting season, while adding more positive energies to our lives. We hope these recipes will fulfill both your food cravings and health goals this Navratri!

This festival season, we are here to bring you to your loved ones back in India. We know that without having your family and loved ones by your side, Navratri simply wouldn’t be complete. That’s why we’re offering numerous Flight Deals to reunite with your loved ones to celebrate this festival season together.
Find more festival season flight offers now at:

Gaura Travel – flight deals
We will see you there and sending our early wishes for a blessed Navratri to you all!

Visit us now at: Gaura Travel and let us provide you with your best way home.

Sources

Shardiya Navratri 2022: Navratri Significance, History And 9 Days of Navratri Devi Names – India Times
15 Best Navratri Vrat Recipes | Popular Fast Recipes | Easy Vrat Recipes – NDTV Food
Sabudana Khichdi (Non-Sticky & Fluffy) – Swasthi’s Recipes
Kuttu Ka Dosa – Your Food Fantasy
Singhare Ke Atte Ka Samosa Recipe: How to Make Singhare Ke Atte Ka Samosa Recipe – Times of India
Low Fat Makhana Kheer – NDTV Food
Vrat ka dholka or Sama ke Chawal ka Dholka – Ruchis Kitchen

Tags Australia, Flights, India, International Travellers, Melbourne, scoot, singapore airlines, Sydney

Events

10 Must Eat Foods This Festival Season

Post author By Helen Tsantikos
Post date 08/09/2022

It’s the most joyous time of the year for Indians of the world! Festival season is here and in full swing, a time where families come together and celebrate their culture, religion and history through performing a variety of rituals and traditions. One of the most important aspects of any Indian festival is of course, the food! From sweet to savoury and everything in between, let’s have a look at the top 10 must eat foods this Festival season!

Barfi
Let’s start the sweets off with Barfi! Made with milk powder, sugar, ghee and garnished with nuts, Barfi are a must have for your Festival feast! Sweet with a slight nuttiness and a melt in your mouth texture, Barfi is a familiar flavor we all know and love and no Mithai platter would be complete without them!

Kaju Katli
Directly translating into cashew slice, Kaju Katli is a traditional sweet cut into diamond shapes and decorated with edible silver colouring. Made with cream, sugar and ground cashews, it’s a sweet treat that is pretty to look at as well as delicious!

Gajar Halwa
A traditional North Indian dessert, Gajar Halwa is made by simmering grated carrots with milk, sugar and ghee. Although it directly translates into “Carrot Pudding” in English, this classic sweet has no eggs but rather is thickened naturally by cooking down the ingredients together for a long period of time until thickened. A favourite for many Indians, Gajar Halwa is a must have during Festival Season!

Gulab Jamun
A classic Indian sweet, often referred to as the Indian donut, Gulab Jamun is made by frying balls of dough made with milk solids and flour, then soaking in a sweet sugary syrup scented with rose and cardamom. Loved by kids and adults alike, this sweet is essential for Indian festivities and is a great recipe to make together with your loved ones!

Soan Papdi
A very popular Indian sweet ideal for any occasion, Soan Papdi is made from chickpea flour, ghee, sugar and milk, amongst other ingredients, and often topped with pistachios and almonds. Known for its flaky and melt-in-your-mouth texture, this treat is sure to bring a smile to everyone’s face!

Kaju Katli, Gajar Halwa, Gulab Jamun, Soan Papdi

Samosa
Starting off strong with the savory foods, we can’t forget Samosas! Samosas are small, triangle shaped, pockets of pastry stuffed with mouth-watering ingredients including minced meat, grains, curry potatoes and vegetables as well as different kinds of spices to add both flavour and colour. An all-time favorite traditional Indian snack, whichever festival you celebrate, it’s not complete without samosas.

Aloo Tikki
Aloo tikki are small, patty-shaped potato cutlets which are well-known as one of the indigenous snacks to the North Indian subcontinent. There are a few ways to call this tasty snack, as it is also known as Aloo Ki tikkia, Aloo ki tikki and Alu tikki. It’s prepared using boiled potatoes, peas, herbs and various authentic curry spices and served with a mint or yogurt dipping sauce. This is one popular street food snack that you’ll never want to miss!

Pakora
Deep fried spiced potato and onion fritters coated in seasoned chickpea batter…aren’t you craving it already? Of course you are! When it comes to Festival season, this street food is a must have. Most Indian restaurants around the world serve pakora as an appetizer, so you can get your fix any time of year.

Dahi Bhalla
Dahi Bhalla or Dahi Vada is a kind of chaat originating from Karnataka, which are soft lentil fritters dunked in creamy yogurt and topped with chutney, then garnished with spices, nuts, and pomegranates. This is one of the most popular street foods eaten around India, which melt in your mouth and will satisfy your sweet, spicy, and salty cravings.

Poha Chivda
One of the most delicious snack mixes around, Chivda is a popular Indian snack made with a mix of flattened rice called poha, spices, curry leaves and nuts. This is eaten as a tea-time snack all year round and is made for festivals including Diwali, Ganesh Chaturthi and Holi. However you prepare your chivda, whether in a thin, thick or medium texture, it’s a healthy snack that can be enjoyed by everyone.

Festival season is the time to enjoy good foods, good friends and good vibes! With our list of favourites, you can make sure you tick off the essential foods on your Festival season bucket list. Reinvigorate your mental taste buds and get your appetite ready for a delicious festival feast!

Missing home? Let us take you back home to your loved ones in India this Festival season. We know that without having your family and loved ones by your side, Festival season simply doesn’t feel complete. That’s why we offer numerous Flight Deals to reunite you with your loved ones, so you can celebrate the various festivities the best way – together.

As there are no quarantine or travel restrictions required in place, plan your journey to reunite with your family & friends with Gaura Travel this year. Find more Festival Season flight deals now at:
Gaura Travel – flight deals
We will see you there and sending our wishes for a happy Festival Season to all!

Visit us now at: G aura Travel and let us provide you with your best way home.

Sources
Diwali Food: 23 Things to Eat During This Beautiful Festival
Carrot Halwa Recipe | Gajar Ka Halwa
How To Make Milk Barfi Recipe | Cook With Nabeela
Soan Papdi Recipe | Awesome Cuisine
Poha Chivda Recipe | Swasthi’s Recipes

Tags Australia, Brisbane, Canberra, Flights, India, Indians, Melbourne, Sydney

Events

Travel Food Recipes – 10 Delicious Recipes for Onam

Post author By Helen Tsantikos
Post date 01/09/2022

Onam is finally here! From the bottom of our hearts, we at Gaura Travel wish a happy and colourful Onam from our family to yours. During Onam we celebrate the humility and generosity of King Mahabali and his devotion to Vishnu through various festivities and events. One of the most highly anticipated festivities, Onam Sadhya, is quickly approaching, so to help prepare for this massive event here are 10 mouth-watering recipes you can follow and enjoy together with your loved ones!

Erissery – Best Travel Food Recipes
Let’s start off strong with Erissery, a traditional Kerala dish usually prepared for weddings and festivals. Featuring pumpkin, coconut and various spices and seasonings, it’s a sweet and comforting taste that will leave you wanting more and more! Check out the recipe here.

Pulissery – Best Recipes for Travel
Another Kerala staple is Pulissery, a dish prepared with buttermilk and ash gourd as well as numerous spices. If you can’t find ash gourd, also known as winter melon, don’t worry, as chopped cucumber will provide a great substitute. Enjoy with hot rice or roti for a delicious meal! Check out the recipe here.

Tenga Choru – Best recipes for travel
Looking for a delicious accompaniment to all those curries? Look no further! Tenga Choru is an even more flavourful spin on the classic coconut rice prepared with urad dal, cashews and lemon for a zesty and refreshing kick. The green chili and coriander leaves will tantalize your taste buds and increase your appetite – so you can fit in more food! Check out the recipe here.

Pachadi – Good Meal for travel
Made from pineapple, coconut, curd and many spices, Pachadi is a light and complex side dish that will compliment any feast! Ready in less than 30 minutes and packed with delicious flavour, Pachadi is a must have for any Onam Sadhya setting. Check out the recipe here.

Avial – Good Meal for traveller
No Onam Sadhya would be complete without Avial curry – Kerala’s traditional dish. Packed with veggies such as drumsticks, yam, carrot and pumpkin, this curry pairs perfectly with roti or hot rice to make a deliciously balanced meal. Not only that, it’s simple to prepare too and can be ready in only 35 minutes!
Check out the recipe here.

Pictured: Pulissery, Pachadi & Avial Curry

Rasam – Best south indian food for traveler
Don’t be fooled by it’s thin, soup-like consistency, this dish is seriously packed with flavor! Made with toor daal, tomatoes, tamarind and loads of spices, this classic South Indian dish packs a serious punch and is delicious served with rice or even just on its own. Check out the recipe here.

Kadala Curry – Good south indian recipe for traveler
An authentic Malabar curry made from black channa (chickpeas), coconut and an array of spices. A hearty staple to any Onam Sadhya setting! This thick curry flavoured with bright and aromatic spices will surely bring a smile to anyone’s face – even the pickiest of eaters! Check out the recipe here.

Kalan Kerala Curry
A simple and delicious currymade from buttermilk, mustard seeds, coconut and bananas. Featuring a variety of different spices and flavours, this traditional Onam dish is a must have for your Onam Sadhya spread! Check out the recipe here.

Ulli Theeyal
A Kerala delicacy, Ulli Theeyal is the ultimate dish to serve to your guests this Onam Sadhya. Made with shallots cooked down in a thick roasted coconut gravy, this tangy and spicy dish will delight your taste buds and make you hungry for more. Check out the recipe here.

Paal Payasam
No meal is complete without dessert, and payasam is one of the best out there! A variation of kheer, payasam is a classic South Indian dessert. With many different kinds from moong dal to coconut, this payasam made with rice is simple to make, as well as delicious! Made with milk, rice, sugar and cashew nuts, this sweet, creamy dessert is the best dish to finish off your Onam Sadhya, and will leave you feeling warm and satisfied. Check out the recipe here.

And there we have it! Now that you have the know-how, it’s time to bust out the banana leaves and get cooking! Prepare these simple yet delicious recipes together with your family and have a wonderful and blessed Onam Sadhya. On that note, why not book a flight home to India this Festival Season? Give your family the ultimate gift and celebrate the festivities together with your loved ones.

As there are no quarantine or travel restrictions required in place, plan your journey to reunite with your family and friends with Gaura Travel this year. Click here and find all available flight options with us.

Visit us now and let us provide you with your best way home!

Sources
Onam 2021: 10 Best Onam Recipes | Onam Sadhya Recipes And Special Dishes
Onam Festival 2022 – Celebrations and the Legend of Mahabali
Onam Festival Kerala: All You Need to Know about Onam Celebration

Tags Australia, kerala food, onam, onam 2022, onam sadhya

Events

India’s 75th Independence Day 2022

Post author By chamindikah
Post date 11/08/2022

Vande Maataram!

This year marks a massive milestone for our beautiful nation as we celebrate the 75^th anniversary of our glory of victory and independence from British rule. Though it hasn’t always been easy, it’s been an incredible journey as we’ve come to grow into one of the strongest nations in the world. Known as a historic and momentous occasion, Independence Day is an event that all Indians throughout the world can celebrate, especially those living in Australia, which houses the second-largest group of overseas-born migrants in the world.

Independence Day events in Australia

You might be worried about missing this big day to celebrate the glory of your nation, but rest assured! There are many events taking place throughout the country, from cultural performances to exhibitions, galas and more. Read more below to find out about local Independence Day events taking place in your city this August.

Independence Day Blog content Image — Independence Day in Australia

Australian Capital Territory

Locals of ACT can witness the raising of the tricolour flag at the High Commission of India in Canberra, with the ceremony starting at 9am on August 15^th. Later in the week on the 20th, celebrate with fellow members of the Indian-Australian community at the Weston Community Hub, where you can witness incredible stage show performances as well as art competitions and sample a range of tasty food. Festivities will take place from 4 to 9pm, and leave you brimming with Indian pride.

New South Wales

It’s all happening in NSW! Locals can enjoy an incredible exhibition of India’s finest textiles dating back to the 19^th century at the Charkha and Kargha Exhibition at Powerhouse Museum Ultimo, which will start on the 13^th. Later that same day kicking off at 7:45 pm, The Council of Indian Australians Inc will be throwing an India Day Dinner consisting of a luxurious three course buffet dinner and numerous stage performances at the Grand Royale Function Centre in Granville. On the 15^th Sydney’s Consulate General of India will also be commemorating Independence Day with the annual hoisting of the Indian flag. Finally, share the love at the Australia-India Friendship Fair on the 21^st, held at Prince Alfred Square in Paramatta, where fun and festivities await.

Victoria

VIC residents rejoice, for there’s a vast number of events for you to enjoy! This year’s Indian Film Festival of Melbourne will kick off on the 12^th and run until the 30^th, giving movie lovers a real treat to look forward to, with cricket star Kapil Dev and actor Amitabh Bachchan starting the festivities with a hoisting of the Indian flag. On the 15^th Indians and Australians alike can witness the annual raising of the Indian flag at the Consulate General of India at 9am sharp, and celebrate with delicious food, drink and fun later in the week on the 20^th at the Australian Indian Community Centre in Rowville, where the Federation of Indian Associations of Victoria will be throwing a multicultural gala for locals to enjoy.

Queensland

Festivities in Queensland will commence with the India Day Fair, held at the Amphitheatre at Roma Street Parkland in Brisbane, where locals can enjoy a variety of festivities such as parades, live music, stage performances and of course delicious food. Later in the day the festivities continue at Centenary Heights State High School in Toowomba with a flag hoisting ceremony followed by cultural performances and the opportunity to try lots of delicious authentic Indian cuisine. Finally, on the 15^th, the Honorary Consulate General of India will be holding its own official flag hoisting ceremony to officially commemorate and celebrate Independence Day.

Western Australia

Residents of WA will enjoy a fantastic evening at Sangam 2022, held by the Indian Society of WA at the Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre. The event will feature a celebration of Indian music, with classical, folk and Bollywood dances to enjoy. On the 15^th, Perth’s Consulate General of India will be holding the annual flag hoisting ceremony at 9am.

South Australia

Finally, in SA locals can experience a truly fascinating cultural event held at the Scott Theatre in the University of Adelaide. The Cultural Program, provided by the Indian Australian Associations of South Australia, will kick off at 1:30PM on the 14^th, where locals can witness the flag hoisting ceremony as well as watch an educational cultural program with patriotic songs and enjoy a plethora of refreshments.

Here at Gaura Travel we hope you have a wonderful Independence Day and celebrate Indian pride with your friends, family and loved ones. Find out more about your local Independence Day events here:

If these events aren’t quite what you’re looking for, why not experience the real deal and fly back home to India this August? Let us help you get there and have the best Independence Day experience with your loved ones.

What’s on – Indian Link

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As there are no quarantine or travel restrictions required in place, plan your journey to reunite with your family & friends with Gaura Travel in this year 2022. Find all available flights options with us.

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Sources
India at 75: Independence Day events in your city – Indian Link

India’s Independence Day 2022 – OnlyMelbourne

Indian Independence Day – Cultural Infusion

Tags Adelaide, Australia, Brisbane, Canberra, Events, Flights, Independence Day, India, Indians, Melbourne, Perth, Reunite Families, Sydney

Events

Festivals of the Season

Post author By chamindikah
Post date 18/07/2022

Diwali is less than 100 days away, at Gaura Travel we celebrate India’s diverse religions and ethnic groups, where a vast number of local festivals are celebrated throughout the year. Each festival brings a unity of culture and celebration with festivities for families, relatives and friends to enjoy.

The next biggest festival of the season, Diwali, is celebrated nationwide in India on October 24^th, 2022 and symbolises the triumph of good over evil and light over darkness.

Diwali – The festival of Lights

Diwali is a festival that symbolises the triumph of good over evil and is celebrated by many different religious groups in India, each with a unique interpretation. Hindus celebrate Diwali to celebrate the return of Rama to Ayodhya after defeating the evil king Ravana and the rebirth of goddess Lakshmi, whereas Jains celebrate and honour Lord Mahavira’s enlightenment. For the Sikh population, the festival is held to celebrate Guru Hargobind’s release from prison.

5-day celebration of this Holiday

This year, Diwali will fall on 24^th October, with the 5-day celebration commencing on 22^nd October with Dhanteras – the act of cleaning and purchasing gold, silver and other new items to decorate the house. For the second day, Choti Diwali, houses are decorated with diyas and candles, with families gathering to create rangolis. On the auspicious day of Diwali, extended families come together with their traditional attires and perform a ritual called ‘Lakshmi Puja’, afterwards celebrating with delicious food and lighting diyas together.

On the fourth day, Padwa, festivities are dedicated to celebrating the loving bond between husband and wife by exchanging gifts. On Bhai Duj, the fifth day, families get together to celebrate the special bond between brothers and sisters, with sisters tying a special bracelet called ‘rakhi’ around each brother’s wrists. In return, the brothers give gifts and sweets to their sisters and promise to protect them for life.

Diwali in Australia

Diwali or Deepavali is the most important occasion for the Indian community in Australia. To Hindus, this is a symbol of hope, harmony, joy and renewed togetherness of life. The Hindu Council of Australia is organising an array of cultural events to be held at Martin Place, Parramatta Park and other venues around Sydney by cooperating with the local Indian communities. These events will not only represent religious significance, but also have something to offer for attendees of all ages, from exciting Bollywood recitals, traditional foods and music, henna artworks and more. Entrance to many of the fair’s cultural events is free, and open to all Australians to experience the rich multicultural traditions, cuisines, music and much more.

With joy and laughter in the air, there’s no better time to travel to India and celebrate this auspicious festival with your loved ones. Find out more about our special flight offers to India during the festival season here:

Flights

Learn more about Australia’s Deepavali events happening near you;

Sydney Deepavali Festival Event

Event Date: 24 October 2022 (TBA)

Venue: Multiple Venues, all around Sydney (Including Cherrybrook, Rouse Hill Town Centre, Liverpool, Hornsby, Sydney NSW)

Entrance: Free

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Flight deals

Sources:
Top Festivals of India in 2025

Diwali – The Festival of Lights

Diwali Legends and Stories

Deepavali Festival in Sydney

Tags Australia Borders Open, Australia to India, Diwali, India, Indian Festivals, International Travel, International Travellers

Events

National Brothers Day

Post author By Aashika Muktyala
Post date 23/05/2022

Woah wait.. your most precious yet unbearably annoying brother gets a whole day dedicated to himself? Let that sink in first.

Let’s just accept it guys..You love ’em, you hate ’em, but you cannot go a day without them. Growing up, they often greeted us with either hugs or a black eye. There was no in between. They are your first best friend, your survival kit, and the one you can trade the world for.

No matter how old you become, when you are with your siblings, you cannot help but relive your childhood. It’s the priceless memories of fighting for the remote, sharing that one chocolate and taking the blame for the broken vase, just to spare him the horror of your mom. Hands down, the best memories majority of us cherish in a lifetime are that of the time spent with brothers.

As life continues and you go different ways, the memories become much stronger. Time and again, you find yourself cherishing those carefree summer vacations from school, those innumerable fights and the countless car rides battling for the front seat. Thinking about those chaste memories leave you nothing but a smile on your face.

They are still your best friend, and if you fall, they will be there to catch you. Call them up today and tell them how special they are to you. This day, relive your childhood with them and tell them you are their number one!

Guess, its right when Christina Rosseti said, “For there is no friend like a brother in calm or stormy weather; to cheer one on the tedious way, to fetch one if one goes astray, to lift one if one totters down, to strengthen whilst one stands”.

We’re here to bridge the gap between you and your brother, you are just a click away to re unite with your loved ones. Travel from Australia to India or India to Australia and make this year memorable!

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Tags Australia, Brothers day, celebrate with your brother, Guara Travel, India, re unite with your brother, travel to your brother

Events

A legend has passed.

Post author By Aashika Muktyala
Post date 31/03/2022

A final goodbye
The Melbourne Cricket Ground was filled with memories on the 30^th of march, honouring former Australia test cricketer Shane Warne. Shane’s contributions to his sport, the state, and the country itself magnify the passion he had for cricket. After Shane Warne’s retirement in 2007, he played for 4 years in the Indian Premier League. Warne served both as a player and mentor for Rajasthan Royals and became the captain of the team when they won the inaugural IPL in 2008, beating Dhoni’s Chennai Super Kings in the final.

Shane Warne’s children unveiled their fond memories of their dad and took a trip down memory lane. ‘My dad just wanted to be the best dad he could be’ said Brooke Warne as she continues to describe her beloved dad and his everlasting legacy. All three of Shane Warne’s children spoke at the memorial amongst a sea of onlookers, everyone cherishing their fond memories of Shane Warne.

Remembering the good
Many performances took place, with Ed Sheeran playing Shane’s favourite song as well as Robbie Williams performing Angels in tribute. Actor Glenn Robbins recalled his experiences playing golf with Shane Warne saying ‘I used to play gold with him as well and it was hard because he had such a full life, and he would tell the best stories’ reminiscing core memories he has with Warne.

Andrea Egan spoke on behalf of the UN wildlife fund and commended Warne’s work which had begun last year, showing his responsibility as an Australian to protect the wildlife ‘when he joined, he expressed his hope of trying to rewrite the future and protecting animals and their habitat’

Shane Warne has impacted many lives throughout his life, from being one of the best cricketers, a father, a friend, a brother, a husband, a son, to a lover of all animals. Warne has left his mark on all of us. The Melbourne Cricket Ground’s atmosphere was quiet and sentimental in memory of Shane Warne.

Ready to rumble?
Plan your trip to India with Gaura Travel and enjoy a stress-free journey. Don’t wait any longer to see your loved ones back home. To book your flights visit -insert link- or contact us at -insert number- for any enquiries. Happy travelling!

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Tags Australia, Guara Travel, India, MCG, Melbourne, Shane Warne, Shane Warne Memorial

Events

This Dussehra, NSW (Rama) vanquishes hotel quarantine (Ravana)

Post author By harshal shah
Post date 12/01/2022

NSW to ‘open up to the world’, scraps quarantine for fully vaccinated passengers

On the occasion of Dussera, could residents of NSW wanting to return to, or travellers wanting to visit the state, have asked for a better gift?

We celebrate Dussera to mark the occasion of Lord Rama defeating Ravana. On that very day Lord Rama was united with Goddess Sita and one can imagine how they might have prepared to travel back to Ayodhya – well you can start packing your bags too, because the state of NSW is ready to welcome you with open arms.

In a very welcome move, NSW premier Dominic Perrottet has announced that fully vaccinated travellers arriving into New South Wales from overseas will no longer have to quarantine from November 1, thereby giving us another reason to celebrate this auspicious day of Dussera.

New South Wales is about to hit its 80 per cent double-dose vaccination target over the weekend and this news comes as an absolute breath of fresh air to travellers and families who wish to fly into NSW.

The reopening of Sydney and NSW to the world, is a giant step towards the resumption of ‘normalcy’, especially for the travel industry, promising a way back to the times before COVID 19 became a household term.

The state of New South Wales has recorded 399 new local coronavirus cases and the case numbers continue to plummet, creating a pathway towards a future without restrictions.

The only thing that matters is double vaccination

In order to qualify and be exempt from quarantine, travellers will need to do a PCR test before boarding a flight and will need to prove their double-vaccination status.

Tourism Minister Stuart Ayres told the press conference there would be no restrictions on where travellers are arriving from. What this effectively means is that regardless of whether you are an Australian Citizen or not, you can travel to NSW.

With vaccination status being the only determinant, the state and its travel industry has made it clear that all travellers are the same in its eyes.

The NSW Government also confirmed that fully vaccinated travellers already in quarantine will be freed on November 1, even if their stay is for less than 14 days.

What does this mean for you?

In simple terms, if you wish to travel back home to NSW, or just want to visit the state, you are welcome to do so after November 1^st without you having to go through hotel quarantine, as long as you are doubly vaccinated.

So, if you haven’t booked up for your vaccines, get onto that first. And then give us a call – we will get you on a flight to Sydney / NSW before you can say ‘Happy Dussera’!

Your prayers have been answered. And Gaura Travel looks forward to flying you to NSW and to welcoming you all once again.

And this time, you can drive away from the airport, wherever you wish. Your imagination is the only limitation.

We wish you all the ‘Happiest Dussera’ ever!

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Tags Australia, border reopen, fully vaccinated, Happy Dussera, India, NSW, PCR, Reopening, Sydney

Events

CELEBRATING 75 YEARS OF INDEPENDENCE WITH TRIVIA’S!

Post author By harshal shah
Post date 12/01/2022

At the stroke of the midnight hour, when the world sleeps, India will awake to life and freedom. 75 years ago, in that moment when Jawaharlal Nehru recited these famous words, India became one. India became free.

A country full of distinct cultures, religions and festivals – one thing that binds us all together is the undying love for our country. Despite the differences, India is united in its diversity. This is where heritage meets pride and beauty meets legacy.

This year marks as the 75^th Independence Day for us! 75 years of reflection of the sacrifice of our leaders, martyrs, and heroes. Oh, we have really come a long way!

To celebrate the love of these 75 years, we are bringing your patriotism and love for India at test! Woah, what does that mean? Well, that means every week we will challenge you with weekly quizzes that will that test your general knowledge, love for sports, academics, history, entertainment and what not!

Brace yourself for trivia’s that will keep you on the edge of your seat! Are you ready? Pull up your socks because this will be a nail biter!

Every week, we will select 2 lucky winners who will get a $50 gift voucher and exciting prizes! Woah!

Get ready guys, prep yourselves because this is going to be fun!

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Tags Australia, Exciting Prizes, Gift Voucher, Independence, India, Jawaharlal Nehru, Lucky Winners, Melbourne, Sydney

Events

This Yoga Day, lets work IN and not OUT!

Post author By harshal shah
Post date 12/01/2022

We often find people diving onto their Yoga matts and transporting into a different paradigm. Into a different world. A world overflowing with positivity and peace. So, the question is, how do they do this? And what exactly is yoga? Is it just a form of exercise? Is it a religion, a philosophy, an ideology? or is it something completely different? Gosh! The list doesn’t end.

The word “yoga” literally means “union”. Derived from the Sanskrit word “yuji,” meaning yoke or union, yoga is an ancient practice that brings together the mind, body and soul. Have you ever imagined experiencing the entire universe inside of you? Well, that is EXACTLY what yoga does. It unites you with your inner soul, your inner world.

This International Yoga Day, lets make Yoga all about working in and not out. We all deserve it after coming out of a deadly pandemic right? Now is the time to open our hearts and focus our awareness into our inner selves.

Here, we give you 10 reasons to love yoga!

Can you run five miles but not touch your toes? You are not alone. Try incorporating Yoga in your life and in no time, you can twist like a Rubric cube (bad jokes are allowed). Yoga is all about balance. It increases your body’s flexibility while building internal and external strength. Through deep breathing It connects your body to your mind.
Tired of working long hours and slouching your way through life? Sounds painful. How about standing up straight and honouring your spine’s natural curves? Yoga not only teaches us to stand and sit straight, with shoulders relaxed and chin up but also improves our bodily alignment, eliminating the risk of injuries.
In need for some some blood rush and thinking of hanging your legs up the wall? How about we tell you that some yoga asanas have the power to instantly speed up your blood circulation? Yes! The Yoga asanas help increase circulation throughout the spine, glands and organs, giving our body the much wanted blood and oxygen.
Health is wealth, isn’t it? Today all we are so busy in our past faced lives that often we forget to take care of ourselves. Our bodies deserve to be treated. A few minutes of yoga is the right way to push that recharge button and say bye-bye to stress.
Dreaming about a flat stomach, toned arms and sculpted legs? Count us in too. Not only Yoga makes one more flexible, but also makes us stronger!
*Take a deep breath and relax*. Breathing in and out is the smallest reminder we can give ourselves to beat anxiety. With physical Yoga poses, controlled breathing, and meditation we can together learn to overcome this monster called stress.
“The wound is the place where the Light enters you.” ― Rumi. Yoga holds the power to heal the mind, body and spirit. Yes, it does. Let’s open our hearts and fasten the healing of body. Be it injuries, mental stress or any illness, a few moments with Yoga everyday can leave you healed, rejuvenated, and refreshed.
The best gift your body can give you is a good night’s sleep, right? In fact, practicing yoga before bedtime is the best way to release everything you’re holding onto mentally or physically before sinking in the peaceful sleep mode.
What’s a nicer way to connect with people than a fun yoga class? Yoga can transform your body, your attitude and your awareness. By connecting with people through Yoga, you have the power to exchange energies and refresh your soul.
Yoga is a transformational practice that strengthens the life force within. It teaches us to overcome internal and external obstacles that come with everyday life. It builds that emotional connection with oneself and teaches us to value life.

Enough said right? Now its time to take your yoga off the mat and into your life!!

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Tags Australia, covid-19, Guara Travel, India, Lockdown, Melbourne, Sydney, Transporting, Yoga

Events

REAL HEROES DON’T WEAR CAPES, THEY WEAR SCRUBS | INTERNATIONAL NURSES DAY

Post author By harshal shah
Post date 12/01/2022

As the world still struggles to fight the battle with COVID-19, millions of healthcare workers continue to resiliently put up their lives on the line to protect us. The pandemic has erupted all sides of humanity into sharp focus, yet most of it has shown the undying bravery of our healthcare workers.

In a year defined by what will likely be the biggest health care crisis of our lifetimes, our brave nurses and caregivers have demonstrated exemplary endurance, compassion, and selflessness unlike anything we have seen.

While many of us stayed at home, our real heroes were on the frontline working tirelessly to take care if us. At times when they were exhausted and desired to be home with their loved ones, they donned their PPE kits and went in to support all of us.

“Thank you” does not begin to convey the gratitude we feel for our nurses. We thank them for every extra shift they did. Every dinner they missed with their kids. From the bottom of our hearts, we thank them not only for the sacrifice they continue to make for us all, but the sacrifices their families and loved ones are making in kind. We thank them for showing up every day and night, all in service of saving lives and helping others.

This International Nurses day, give them a shout-out, cheer them on, and do them a favour by washing your hands!

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Tags covid-19, Healthcare, International Nurse Day, International Student, Pandemic

Events

Our Tribute to Mother’s Day – NINDIYA

Post author By harshal shah
Post date 12/01/2022

About the song

The song captures the sacred emotion between a mother and her child. Especially when the child grows up and leaves the house (for study, marriage etc.) to live a life of their own. The song shows this through a moment in Lord Krishna’s life when he leaves his mother Yashoda in Vrindavan never to return.Nindiya captures that first night Yashoda spends without her darling Krishna, unable to sleep without her son. And how the all-knowing Krishna reassures her from en route to Mathura that he is always with her.
It highlights a mother’s emotions and her (grown-up) child’s reassurance that the bond they share will never diminish. To the Yashoda in every mother, to the Krishna in every son / daughter.

Gaura Travel’s Association with the Song

Mother is the most beautiful word on the lips of mankind. If we were to express the love and gratitude we have for our mothers, we would be at a complete loss for words.
We know the pandemic has been a testing time for all of us. However, it has been the hardest for our mothers. There is nothing more painful for a mother than to be away from her children during such uncertainties.

We felt their pain. We felt their angst and their yearning to see their children.

Hence, we left no stoned unturned in reuniting thousands of mothers with their loved ones. At Gaura Travel, “Reuniting families” solely became our motto to serve our community.

This mothers day, to celebrate and cherish the love of our mothers, we are collaborating with Siyer – The composer and singer of Nindiya, a song dedicated to the real pillars of our families. The real MVP’S.

Listen, love and share!

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Tags Australia, Charter Flights, Gaura Travel, India, Lord Krishna, Mothers Day, NINDIYA, Reuniting Families, Tribure, Vrindavan

Events

The Power Of Nine Nights – Happy Navratri!

Post author By harshal shah
Post date 12/01/2022

What is Navtatri?

Navratri, meaning ‘nine nights’, is one of the most auspicious and widely celebrated Hindu festivals in India. This year, starting April 13, the Hindu festival of Navarātri will begin and last till April 22. It is a time of celebration as well as of reflection for Hindus all across the globe. These nine days are truthfully devoted to Maa Durga and her nine incarnations, the epitome of sheer courage and strength. To offer gratitude to the goddess, people indulge all forms of fasting, spiritual practices, pujas, meditations and abstain from non vegetarian food and alcohol. All over India there is eruption of a nine-night dance festival and each night people assemble in open spaces to celebrate feminine divinity, referred to as Shakti. The Navratri pooja has an elaborate abhishekam of 11 offerings and a cheerful time of music and dance, singing the praises of the glory of Devi. It’s an explosion of energy and positivity.

Navratri celebration in Australia

Over the time, this festival has crossed boundaries of the nation and has become a reason to share smiles and joy all over the world. With millions of Indians living in Australia and many other countries, the festival is celebrated with utmost zest and zeal. A mother of two and a psychologist, Ms Khurana arrived in Australia in 2014 with her family. “We have formed a community group in which members host special prayers during Navratri at home and invite others. It’s a very important festival for us”, says Ms Kakkar. Today, Melbourne is home to the largest Hindu temple of the country and during busy festivals like Navratri, Shri Durga Temple at Deanside, hosts thousands of people (except for 2020 due to COVID-19). Pandit Sushil Shastri, a priest at the temple, says the festivities can even give you the illusion that you are in India.

In 2019, Indian Society in Australia hosted navtri nights In perth where people were dressed up in vibrant traditional attires of Ghagra-choli and Kurta – Pyjama. The delightful event was packed with the Garba fervour and great food. This is also a great time to travel to India, and be a part of the celebrations. Every part of India has a unique and beautiful way of honouring the occasion.

Here are a few Navratri events happening in Australia that might interest you :

Chaitra Navratri Garba

First time in History of Australia, a garba and dandia night proudly organised by GR Group( GR Events & GR Phones). The event is aupporting local and national artist and talents of Sargam Musical Forum. Join them for a blast of fun, dance and music.

When: 17 April 2021

Where : The Parks Recreation and Sports Centre – YMCA ,46 Cowan St, Angle Park SA

Navratri Celebrations 2021

An event curated by Jai Durga Sankirtan Mandal in Adelaide, this is a celebration of Navratri with special performances by kids and Maata ke Darshan (blessings of goddess).

When: 17 April, 2021

Where : Vietnamese Community Centre, 62, Athol Street, Athol Park, SA.

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Tags Australia, covid-19, Devi, Ghagra-Choli, GR Events, Indians, Maa Durga, Maata ke Darshan, Navarati, Nine Nights, Sargam Musical Forum, Shri Durga Temple

Events

The Festival of Harvest – Baisakhi

Post author By harshal shah
Post date 12/01/2022

India is renowned globally for its cultural diversity and indeed, it’s the uniqueness of the country, where such countless religions and societies abide in concordance. Even the smallest or the biggest festivals are celebrated with open arms by all religions. Similarly, amidst the rich harvest and across the greenfield, comes the festival of Baisakhi. Also known as Vaisakhi, it is a festival of harvest celebrated in the regions of north India. This is a celebration that additionally denotes the Punjabi New Year and is praised to express appreciation for the great harvest season. Prayers are said for future success and mere gratitude is expressed by all. Lovely fairs are held in the towns in Punjab and the air is one of fellowship and cheer. Celebrated in the Vaisakh (April) month, it also denotes the start of the new spring year. It is a great time to travel to India, and be a part of the exuberant festivities.

Significance of Baisakhi

This festival holds a ton of significance in Punjab as it is overwhelmingly an agricultural state. All things considered, it is commended with a ton of energy and people get up right on time and take a dip in the holy rivers. Baisakhi likewise has a lot of importance for Sikhs, who praise the day as the birthday of the 10th Sikh Guru, Guru Gobind Singh and the establishment of the Khalsa in 1699. The best and energizing thing about Baisakhi is that it is commended directly in the open fields with lots of bhangra and gidda dance performed by people. Everybody spruces up for the event in the most vivid conventional outfits and the hints of the dhol could be heard all over.

Gurudwaras are beautifully decorated on this occasion and host kirtans. Everyone gathers to share happiness and visit the Golden temple to seek blessings. After offering prayers, Sikhs usually wear vibrant traditional Indian clothes and take part in parades through the streets. There is singing, dancing and chanting of hymns. This procession is called the Nagar Kirtan.

Baisakhi in Australia

In 2019, Melbourne was decked up and thousands of people assembled to honour the lovely festival of Baisakhi. For the first time ever, Nagar Kirtan event was celebrated at a tremendous scale on the streets, and there was nothing but joyous in the air. The event was organised by the Victorian Sikh Gurdwaras Council (VSGC) and more than 20,000 sikhs came together to celebrate the heritage and culture of Sikhs traditions.

This year, Sandgate in Brisbane hosted a grand Mela, with dancing, food, activities and music on display. Delicious north Indian dishes were devoured by all and sports such as gatka (Indian martial arts) and volleyball were played. The event was concluded with a stunning fireworks show which lit up the night sky. This is also a great time to travel to India and celebrate the festival in the regions of Punjab.

Check out the video in the link here –

Here is an event happening in Australia that might interest you :

Vaisakhi Mela 2021

Victorian Punjabi Swag is hosting a Mela and is calling all ladies to dress up in the best of their colours and put on their dancing shoes. It’s going to be a soiree full of exciting performances, games and food.

When : 25 April 2021

Where : 514 High St, Epping VIC 3076

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Tags Baisakhi, Cultural Diversity, Festival of Harvest, Golden Temple, Guru Gobind Singh, Gurudwaras, India, Indian Martial Arts, Khalsa, Nagar Kirtan, Punjab, Sikhs, Vaishaki, Victorian Sikh Gurdwaras Council(VSGC), Volleyball

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