In collaboration with several community organisations, Punya Foundation organised a candlelight vigil in Playford to honour and pray for the lives lost in the tragic Bondi Beach shooting. The event brought together people from diverse cultural, spiritual, and community backgrounds, providing a respectful space for remembrance, reflection, healing, and collective wellbeing.
The candlelight vigil was the central focus of the program. A minute silence was observed. Participants lit candles together in silence, symbolising remembrance, hope, compassion, and unity, and reinforcing a shared commitment to peace, understanding, and mutual respect.
Interfaith prayers accompanied the vigil and were led by respected spiritual leaders. A Buddhist prayer was offered by Tulku Rinpoche Kezang Tamang, a Hindu prayer by Pundit Santiram Upadhaya Dhakal, and a Christian prayer by Chaplain Leane from the Salvation Army. These prayers reflected shared values across faiths and strengthened intercultural understanding.
The program also included addresses by Mr. Kashi Adhikari, CEO of Punya Foundation, who spoke about spiritual wellbeing, multicultural inclusion, and community resilience. Hon. Glenn Docherty, Mayor of the City of Playford, acknowledged the importance of multicultural harmony and community unity and reinforced strengths and unity.
Participants from various multicultural backgrounds, including families, elders, children, and community representatives, attended the vigil. The event strengthened interfaith and intercultural connections and fostered a strong sense of unity, supporting each other and belonging within the community. Punya Foundation thanks Mr Puskar Poudyal and Mr Hari Adhikari for coordination and collaboration with the community organisations.
