‘A Peaceful Mind for a Peaceful Society’ was the theme of a multicultural program organised by the Dawoodi Bohras, Melbourne at the Australian Indian Community Centre in Rowville.

Members from various faiths and backgrounds participated in the program to discuss and share ideas on promoting harmony and peace among communities.

The conference was organized on the occasion of ‘Yaum al Mab’ath’ when Prophet Mohammed received his prophethood. It was attended by members of various religions, regions, cultures and backgrounds.

The attendees were traditionally welcomed with sweets as they entered. After the recitation of the Holy Quran, the topic for the day was explained by the PR Lead for the Dawoodi Bohra community, Mr. Mustafa Poonawala. A minute of silence was observed to offer solidarity and prayers to earthquake victims in Turkey, Syria and New Zealand. Guest speakers were invited to address the gathering, including the Hon. Will Fowles MP who attended the event on behalf of the Minister for Multicultural Affairs the Hon. Colin Brooks MP and Ms Vivienne Nyugen (Chairperson Victorian Multicultural Commission).

A poem on peace was recited by the children of the Dawoodi Bohra community. Their hopeful young voices painted a picture of a harmonious world filled with peace, tolerance and acceptance, that touched the hearts of the audience.

Later a panel discussion took place about what is being done and what more could be done to create a peaceful society. Members of the Dawoodi Bohra community and other guests took part in the discussion.

Towards the end of the programme, everyone was requested to make a ‘Peace Pledge’ by posting their names on a pledge board. Lunch was served during the break and as the guests left they were offered oil based perfume in line with the tradition of the Dawoodi Bohra community.