Pride in celebrating diversity

For proud Bangladeshi woman Nasreen Rahman, singing helps her feel close to the land she calls home.

''It keeps my heritage alive,'' Ms Rahman, born in the village Noakhali, now called Feni, said.

Ms Rahman, who is fluent in four languages, usually sings folk songs of Bangladesh. She chose to sing in Hindi last night at the National Multicultural Festival where she was performing with The Federation of Indian Associations of ACT, as part of India in the City.

Advertisement: Story continues below She sang a song by Kishore Kumar, who is well-known in India. Mr Kumar's song is addressed to his daughter. Ms Rahman sings to alleviate stress associated with her eldest son.

''Singing keeps me sane,'' she said. ''I have four children and an eldest son suffering from mental illness. That gives me a lot of anxiety. Singing keeps me distracted from that.''

Ms Rahman was glad to be part of the festival because its ethos was close to her heart.

''This festival reminds us that we are so diverse and we are proud of it.'' CLAIRE LOW

Original source: http://www.canberratimes.com.au/act-news/pride-in-celebrating-diversity-20120211-1t9ga.html