Australian PM Anthony Albanese Wears Dhaka Topi to Celebrate Tihar at Sydney Nepal Festival 2026

In a high-profile celebration of multicultural identity and community integration, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese joined the Nepali diaspora at Sydney’s Tumbalong Park in Darling Harbour to celebrate Nepal Festival 2026 and the festival of Tihar.

Addressing thousands of attendees while wearing a traditional handwoven Nepali Dhaka Topi, the Prime Minister lauded the thriving Nepali community for its enduring contributions to Australia’s economic, cultural, and social fabric.

“Diversity is Our Strength”: PM Albanese Praises Nepali Community

Taking to his official social media handles shortly after participating in the cultural festivities, Prime Minister Albanese expressed his appreciation for the warm reception accorded to him by community leaders and attendees:

“Wonderful to join the Nepali community in Sydney to celebrate Tihar today. Diversity is our strength, and your community is an important part of it,” PM Albanese shared across his platforms alongside photographs highlighting the traditional welcome.

During his address, the Prime Minister emphasized Australia’s commitment to fostering an inclusive, multicultural nation, identifying the rapidly growing Nepali community as one of the most vibrant and constructive migrant demographics in the country.

Cultural Grandeur at Sydney’s Darling Harbour

Organized by local diaspora groups and community volunteers, Nepal Festival Sydney 2026 transformed Tumbalong Park into a bustling celebration of Himalayan heritage.

The day-long event featured:

• Traditional Performances: Live renditions of seasonal Deusi-Bhailo songs, folk instruments (Madal), and ethnic dances representing various provinces of Nepal.
• Gastronomic Showcase: Food stalls providing authentic Nepali cuisine, including Momo, Sel Roti, and traditional Tihar sweets.
• Artisanal Exhibitions: Displays of indigenous handicrafts, pashmina, and traditional attire aimed at promoting cultural tourism among international visitors.

With thousands of Australian residents and tourists participating alongside political dignitaries, the event underscored the rising cultural profile of the Nepali diaspora across Oceania.