THE 2,000 plus Indian population of Miri city have a unique way of celebrating the multiple auspicious Indian festivities in one combined fashion, but they are adhering to new norms this year by celebrating with prayers at home.
Today is Vaisakhi, the Indian harvest festival, and usually, the Indian community here gets together to celebrate all their various important festivities under one roof.
They hold one big festive gathering, to celebrate the Indian New Years of Baisakhi, Vishu, Ugadi, Gudi Padra, Aluth Arurudhu, Puthandu, Nan Roz, Guru Bihu, Vaishakha and Naba Barsha, said Miri Indian Association president Karambir Singh.
Karambir, who is also a senior Miri city councillor, told The Vibes today that his community enjoys celebrating multiple Indian festivals in one big do.
"We make it a habit to celebrate our many important events like new year and religious festivals in one combined fashion where everyone comes together all at once.
"The big do will see many types of dances, songs, stage shows, fashion shows that are unique to individual groups.
"This year and last year, we cannot get together as we are in the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic.
"We can only celebrate with prayers at home," he added.
Karambir said though the Indian community in Miri is small, they are vibrant and colourful in nature.
"In fact, we celebrate every festival – Chinese New Year, Hari Raya Puasa, Gawai Dayak, Deepavali, Thaipusam, all other Indian festivals, Christmas and any other festivals we can find," he quipped.
Sarawak have a population of about 10,000 Indians, with most of them living in Kuching and Miri. – The Vibes, April 13, 2021
