Sydney-based IT professional Aman Benipal is using Facebook from last ten years. His social media page has a fan following of more than 125,000 people.
Mr Benipal is a multifaceted personality. He has a deep down interest for poetry, dance and stage performances.
His love for Punjabi dance form of Bhangra brought him to the limelight on social media.
“I was very shy initially. But once I’d a bit of appreciation I never looked back,” Mr Benipal told SBS Punjabi.
“I can do Bhangra almost anywhere, everywhere. Some people often get a bit ‘iffy’ but that is who I am. I don’t care what people care. This is how I started and I wish to continue in the same style.”
While talking specifically about his use of social media, Mr Benipal said that some people may be addicted but the most want to be informed.
“Can social media be used to make a difference worth making - that was the question which used to strike my mind,” said Mr Benipal.
Originally from Punjab, India, Mr Benipal migrated to New Zealand along with his family in 1996.
“Moving to NZ was a life-changing experience. I was a permanent resident. But it was heart-breaking to see people suffering due to visa issues,” adds Mr Benipal.
“International students have toughest of life in Australia and New Zealand. I wanted to share their experience with the local community. And what could have been a better way to share their emotions via other than poetry?”
“There are a lot of positive things to talk about. We don’t need to go negative all the time. But ‘balance’ is the key.”
“There are some issues that need to be talked about in our society. That’s why I never compare constructive criticism with negativity.”
“I don’t want to talk big. But with my father’s blessings I want to spread messages that matter the most in society – let it be gender equality or the stereotype, international student exploitation, migrant issues, domestic violence, family values or even ‘just fun’ in the dance form of Bhangra,” said Mr Benipal.
“My only concern is if people on social media are getting over critical?”
“Sometimes I get confronted. People often forget that there are things that need to be dealt with in a lighter vein. I am not agenda-driven.”
“I hope people following my page understand that I am here to spread thoughts of happiness. I want to talk about social issues rather than political agendas.”
Poem - 'Are we afraid, what'd people say!'
Benipal Family Fun
