DISTINGUISHED HINDU statesman Rajan Zed has wished glorious Australia Day (January 26) to Australians. Zed, who is President of Universal Society of Hinduism, in a release in Nevada (USA) today, hoped that Australia Day would bring happiness and success to all Australians.

Australia Day is the anniversary of the arrival of the First Fleet of 11 convict ships from Great Britain in Port Jackson, and the raising of the Union Jack at Sydney Cove in 1788. Australians attend organized community events, get together with family and friends and enjoy barbeques-picnics-parades-festivals-concerts-fireworks-etc., on this national day which is a public holiday. Celebrations are held in each town/suburb/city.

Australia, sixth largest country and known for its natural beauty, has the longest continuous cultural history. Quentin Bryce is Governor-General while Julia Gillard is Prime Minister.