Melbourne Indian restaurants ‘Vindaloo Against Violence’ campaign a sell out

MELBOURNE - In a reaction to a to a spate of racial attacks against Indians, chefs in Indian restaurants across Melbourne have launched a campaign called, ‘Vindaloo Against Violence’.

Thousands of customers are likely to treat their tastebuds in support of racial harmony, as many Indian restaurants in Melbourne, and across Australia, have been booked out well in advance for tonight’s Vindaloo Against Violence campaign.

Brenda Pereira, co-owner of Indian Tukka on Victoria in Collingwood said they would serve up to 90 people.

“I think it will go really well. It’s just the awareness, everyone letting their friends know, it has a domino effect. I’m sure it will go well and the message will go out to the community,” the Sydney Morning Herald quoted her, as saying.

Melbourne’s Tiffins, which delivers hot Indian meals by bicycle, is having one of its busiest days on record.

“It is so busy we have four vans helping our fleet of five bikes to make 1000 deliveries during lunch today. This is a huge amount and just goes to show how passionate locals feel about this message,” Mikhil Kotak, who owns the business with brother Maddy, said.

The idea for the campaign originated when Mia Northrop, 35, a digital media professional from Flemington, invited 100 friends on Facebook to dine out to support the Indian community. Soon, her idea gathered pace beyond expectations.

Over 16,000 protesters have now registered their participation at more than 400 restaurants across Australia.

Federation Square is also supporting tonight’s venture, with the Merchants of Bollywood performing from evening, a DJ set and a screening of the film King of Bollywood.

“It’s been an amazing response. I think it’s been an important time for people to say we don’t want our country tarnished as a racist place. The majority of us really enjoy the cultural diversity and have nothing but respect for our migrant communities,” Northrop said.

Northrop will have lunch with Melbourne High School students at Little India in South Yarra before dining at her local Indian restaurant in Flemington. (ANI)