Melbourne, January 24 (Indian Abroad Newsdesk)
Members of the Indian community came together in Melbourne to bid farewell to High Commissioner Gopal Baglay, at a gathering hosted by the Indian Australian Diaspora Foundation (IADF). The event highlighted the strong rapport Baglay built with the diaspora during his tenure, with community leaders commending his accessibility and emphasis on people-to-people engagement.
The farewell was organised by the IADF under the leadership of its director, Jay Shah, continuing the foundation’s efforts to create platforms that connect diaspora communities with diplomatic, political and civic leadership. Such initiatives, organisers noted, have helped strengthen dialogue and cooperation at the grassroots level.
The evening also welcomed Anish Rajan, the newly appointed Consul General of India in Melbourne, who attended as a special guest. In his remarks, Rajan reflected on his earlier professional association with High Commissioner Baglay, describing him as a mentor whose guidance during the formative years of his diplomatic career had a lasting influence on his approach to public service.
Addressing the gathering, High Commissioner Baglay reflected on his tenure since assuming office in January 2024, describing his posting to Australia as deeply fulfilling. He noted, however, that while India–Australia relations had made significant progress, there remained further potential to be realised. He emphasised that the bilateral relationship is increasingly shaped not only by official engagements, but also by everyday connections between communities, educational institutions, businesses and families in both countries.
Adding a reflective note to the evening, High Commissioner Baglay recited a Hindi poem by renowned poet Dr Harivansh Rai Bachchan, which resonated with the audience as a meditation on purpose, perseverance and direction in public life.
In a vote of thanks, the organisers expressed appreciation for High Commissioner Baglay’s steady and open engagement with the Indian diaspora and his consistent support for community initiatives. The remarks also acknowledged the role of Jay Shah in convening the farewell, recognised business leader Jaideep Sharma for his behind-the-scenes assistance, and thanked the Hindu Council of Australia for its support, along with Vijay Dhiman and Harshad Kale for backing the event.
The farewell took place as High Commissioner Baglay continued a series of official engagements in Canberra, including a formal call on Governor-General Sam Mostyn at Government House, as listed on the Governor-General’s official programme.
The High Commissioner held a warm farewell meeting with Special Envoy for Indian Ocean Affairs Tim Watts, extending heartfelt appreciation for his guidance and support both in his current role, and his previous role as the Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs.
The High Commissioner also called on Minister for Skills and Training Andrew for a warm farewell meeting. The High Commissioner thanked Minister for his continued support to the vibrant Indian community in Australia and his efforts in deepening India-Australia skilling cooperation. The Minister appreciated the High Commissioner’s active efforts in strengthening bilateral relations and extended best wishes for his future endeavours.
Community leaders noted that while diplomatic farewells are customary, the gathering reflected the growing role of diaspora organisations as informal bridges in the India–Australia relationship—fostering networks, encouraging public dialogue and reinforcing cultural ties for Indian-Australians across the country.
