Although Hindus will mark Diwali on November 13 this year, a number of associations throughout the country have planned festivities earlier to enable people of all ethnic groups to get together and enjoy Indian food and entertainment.
Rotorua
The Hindu Council of New Zealand will lead the activities this year with the ‘Rotorua Deepawali Festival’ on Saturday, October 6 at the Rotorua Convention Centre (1170 Fenton Street), Rotorua.
Organiser Dr Guna Magesan said that ‘Unity in Diversity’ would be the theme for the Festival this year.
“It is gratifying that a number of organisations representing several nationalities will participate in this year’s Festival justifying the theme. The event will also pay tribute to volunteers, supporters, performers, sponsors and guests,” he said.
All participants of the first Maori Indian Hui will attend the cultural show, he added.
The Festival will begin with the celebration of recognition of the Hindu Council of New Zealand by the UN Economic and Social Council, followed by a variety entertainment programme.
“The performers of various dance items would be from Anujay School of Dance, Bay of Plenty Bhangra Team, Bellyvegas Community Dance Group, Indiance School, Monisha School of Dance, Natraj School of Dance, Padma School of Dance, Rotorua Chinese Association and Rotorua Malayali Association.
The programme will also comprise songs by Cherie Tuaupiki (Maori-Indian community) and Yoga Demonstration by Paul Barton and his team.
Hamilton
The Waikato Chapter of the Global Organisation of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO) and Indianz Global are organising ‘Diwali Mela’ at the Garden Place (Victoria Street side) in Hamilton on Saturday, October 20, 2012.
GOPIO (Waikato) President Pradeep Kumar said that the daylong event would be held from 10 am to 7 pm. Entry would be free and open to all.
“The festivities would actually begin on October 16 with a concert at the Waikato Hall (Sky City) on Victoria Street. Entry would be by tickets priced at $10 per person,” he said.
He said the ‘Diwali Mela’ would comprise stalls retailing food items, crafts, jewellery, Indian dresses, Mehdi and other items.
“There would also be facilities for head massage and beauty care. Following the Mela, the ‘University-Indian Students Cultural Club’ will have their show at the Gallagher Hall, commencing at 7 pm. Hamilton City Library is also organising story- time events for children,” Mr Kumar said.
Manukau
The Manukau Indian Association will celebrate Diwali at the Telstra Clear Events Centre in Manukau on November 10.
Dr Anil Channa, Past-President and Executive Committee member of the Association said that the event would bring together people of varied ethnicity and culture.
“The Festival will also provide a platform for young artistes to showcase their talents and allow us to work with other organisations,” he said.
Dr Channa said that the event will begin at 1 pm and conclude at 9 pm.
Further details will appear in an ensuing issue.
