Visitors to the Masala Markets can explore a myriad of flavours from all over Asia, including Western Indian Gujarati vegetarian delights, Punjabi cuisine from the Punjab regions of India and Pakistan, and Kottu from Sri Lanka.
With over 35 stalls to explore, those with a sweet tooth will take delight in the selection of traditional Indian sweets including Barfi, Katli and Ladoo. From mild to very spicy, sweet to savoury there is a wide spectrum of traditional cuisine to discover at Parramasala.
Minister for Tourism and Major Events, George Souris said: “I urge all Sydneysiders, visitors and especially lovers of traditional South Asian cuisine, not to miss this wonderful culinary and cultural experience, which will bring a true taste of Asia to Western Sydney.”
“The NSW Government, through Destination NSW is proud to support the 2013 Parramasala festival.”
In addition to the culinary delicacies there will be a stunning array of fashion, spices, fabrics, arts and crafts stalls, transforming Prince Alfred Park into a unique multicultural shopping experience. Browse through the Turkish ceramics and mugs, Afghan Jewellery, Indian arts and crafts, Nepalese singing bowls and Vietnamese lacquer ware. There is something for everyone, even children will love exploring the markets with felt dolls, costume jewellery and hair clips among the wares.
“This is a melting pot of authentic Asian experiences, everything from the jam-packed line-up of music, film, comedy and acrobatic performances to the vast array of food and beverages celebrates the many cultures that call Western Sydney home. This is an adventurous day out for the whole family to explore and enjoy,” said Artistic Director David Malacari.
The Lord Mayor of Parramatta, Cr John Chedid, said that Parramatta is a famous dining destination in its own right.
“Parramatta has a huge array of authentic restaurants to choose from, thanks to the myriad of cultures that call this City home. Whether you dine along the well-known Eat Street, indulge in South Asian cuisine in Harris Park or take in some delicious Arabic delicacies in Granville, there’s something here that will whet your appetite,” Cr Chedid said.
If you’re looking to get away from the hustle and bustle, try a free meditation session at Life Eternal Trust kiosk or head to the Chai Temple and indulge in a soothing cup of chai tea or aromatic coffee. Soak up the atmosphere of this relaxing oasis, beautifully decorated with Middle Eastern rugs and saris.
As night falls, the Chai Temple will transform into a live music venue, playing host to an incredible range of free performances. Saturday night will feature Sufi musician and world whistling champion Asim Gorashi, Aneesha Ramani with the graceful dance of Odissi and African rhythms from the Shohrat Tursun Trio. Singer-songwriter, Raghu Dixit, from Bangalore will conclude the evening in an unplugged performance featuring special guests.
On Sunday the Chai Temple will play host to a haunting Carnatic classical music performance by Indu Balachandran and Malathi Nagarajan; a traditional Indian performance, Bharatanatyam, known for its grace and sculpturesque poses accompanied by the soulful Hang and the Sydney Qawwal Party will treat audiences to qawwali renditions, a customary style Sufi music.
The night will conclude with virtuosi Andrew McNeill on sarod and Bobby Singh on tabla, together the duo form the most respected North Indian music ensemble in Australia.
Parramasala is a key arts and cultural event on the NSW Events Calendar funded by Destination NSW and Parramatta City Council.
For the full program and to join the email list to get regular newsletters and updates, please visit http://parramasala.com
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