A tete-a-tete with Ashwini Sonthalia from Gaura Travels following the successful organization of a chartered flight to welcome the Indian Prime Minister.
On May 23, 2023, Sydney's Qudos Bank Arena hosted a grand reception for Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, attended by over 20,000 people. We had the opportunity to speak with Ashwini Sonthalia from Gaura Travels, based in Melbourne, who arranged a special chartered flight from Melbourne to Sydney, allowing Victorian Indians to take part in this momentous celebration.
What was the motivation behind organising a chartered flight from Melbourne to Sydney on the day of PM Modi’s event?
Prime Minister Modi's visit to Australia was a momentous occasion, as it had been nearly a decade since his last visit. Previously, there was a train journey that transported enthusiasts from Melbourne to Sydney. This time, given our experience in organising chartered flights, the Indian-Australian Diasporic Foundation (IADF), the event organisers, approached us to explore the option of uniting our community across both states and bringing them together on this significant day. The excitement among the people was palpable from the moment his visit was announced, and we felt it was only fair to do our part in ensuring as many people as possible could attend.
How did you go about securing this opportunity at short notice?
It was challenging, no doubt. Organising a special plane requires a lot of leg work and planning, and not too many airlines in the post-Covid ecosystem have a lot of spare planes to provide. Fortunately, we have a long and strong working relationship with Qantas Airways. They came on board with our idea and provided their very kind and prompt support to help realise this effort.
You were recently recognised for arranging a number of chartered flights during the pandemic that assisted stranded Indians in reuniting with their loved ones overseas. At a time of crisis when businesses struggled to stay afloat, what inspired your philanthropic cause?
When the pandemic hit, we never anticipated its prolonged impact on the world. As the months went by, our anxieties grew, and we longed to see our loved ones. The Indian Government initiated the Vande Bharat mission, which provided special flights for passengers to travel home. However, there were limited planes and long queues of people waiting to fly. It was then that we decided to step up and assist our fellow citizens. Our intention was reinforced by the Indian Consulate-General of Melbourne, who advised us that our assistance would greatly alleviate the distress experienced by separated family members. This initiative would not have been possible without the support we received from the airlines we collaborate with. Initially, we started with two flights, but it eventually grew to 102 flights. Knowing that our efforts served a humanitarian purpose was gratifying. However, it was also an anxious time for us as a business. To provide some context, each flight carried an average of three hundred people, and as Gaura Travels, we bore the responsibility for their safe passage to India. It was a delicate balance between philanthropy and ensuring our own sustainability.
In today’s business landscape, has Corporate Social Responsibility become an integral part of any successful venture?
Any business today needs a strong sense of purpose beyond the commercial. It is the community that helps a business thrive. Hence working towards their welfare is the modicum payback that a venture must endeavour towards. This is also the essence of the spirit at Gaura Travels.
Could you share your experiences and emotions being involved in the grand welcome for Mr. Modi?
Even before reaching the venue, there was tremendous pomp and celebration as our passengers arrived at Melbourne Airport. Thanks to Qantas Airways who enabled this, we saw groups of people break into song and dance at the airport, heralding the exciting event that was to unfold later that afternoon. In a first of its kind, the crew on the flight also extended us an offer to use their PA system for performing patriotic songs in mid-air! It was a party like never before.
pon reaching the venue, my immediate reaction was a profound sense of pride upon witnessing the pedestal on which our Prime Minister was placed by the Australian Government. He received a rock-star welcome amidst tens of thousands of fellow Indians. The event showcased great cooperation between various organizations involved in its organization. Cultural performances highlighting our art and traditions were displayed with immense fanfare. We were privileged to be seated at the front of the arena, alongside Prime Minister Albanese, Senator Penny Wong, Peter Dutton, and several other Members of Parliament. It was undoubtedly a proud moment as an Indian in Australia.
What are your expectations as an Indian-Australian from such diplomatic meetings between the two countries’ leaders?
In the past decades, India’s diplomatic focus has predominantly been towards the Americas and Europe. But with a burgeoning diaspora down under, it is important that the relationship between Indian and Australian systems of economy, education and businesses is continuously worked upon and deepened. This was also highlighted by Mr. Modi himself who quipped that the equation between the two countries had now moved on from a Test Cricket format to a T20 format, which gives us an anticipation of plenty of thrilling developments that will arise.
What exciting ventures are in the offing for Gaura Travels?
While we continue strengthening our relationship with our airlines and business partners, we are constantly working towards securing great travel deals for our clients. Our mission remains focused on providing convenient and affordable touring options for our customers. "Your best way home" encapsulates our commitment to ensuring a seamless travel experience.
By Nishant Kaushik