The only one of its kind in the world, the internationally acclaimed 35 member “Sri Dasmesh” Band’s recent tour (17-26 April 2009) of Sydney was a groundbreaking success! Organised by SYA, the tour significantly raised the profile of the Sikh Community in the wider mainstream Australian community.

The Band, having been invited by the RSL NSW from Malaysia to participate in the Sydney ANZAC Day March commenced their tour by performing in the Glenwood Gurdwara Nagar Kirtan, where over six thousand people witnessed them in a community march. This was followed by performances in the Panania & Penrith RSL ANZAC Parades, where they were extremely well relieved and impressed crowds with their striking uniforms and extraordinary talent.

The Band also featured in the resoundingly successful Spectacular ‘FUSION’ performance, where they created history by combining the Bagpipes & Drums Band with Bollywood Bhangra and Spiritual Hymn Singing in the centre of Sydney at Martin Place, on April 20th, drawing a crowd of over 1000. The band also was a resounding success as the grande finale to the Sydney Royal Easter Show, drawing huge crowds and media attention.

The band concluded their tour by marching with the Sikh Regiment in the Sydney ANZAC Parade on the 25th of April. An absolute crowd favorite, they were asked by the organizers to march three times, including as part of the combined bagpipe band march. The band, their striking appearance and music, was an instant crowd favorite and were followed by with countless accolades and loud cheers wherever they marched. Media coverage of the band was also extensive, and they were requested by the organizers and several of the other bands to make sure they return every year – a tremendous achievement and recognition of the Sikh community in Australia!

Sikh Youth Australia is grateful to the major sponsor Department of Foreign Affairs & Trade (Australia-Malaysia Institute) and the Sikh Community of Australia for their generous support in ensuring the success of this project