Concert in aid of Uttarakhand in the Capital

Residents of Wellington will have an opportunity to enjoy an evening of entertainment, contributing in the process to a fund in aid of the victims of the flash floods in the North Indian State of Uttarakhand (read another report under Homelink).

The programme, titled, ‘Saarang 2013’ organised by ‘Saarang,’ will be held on August 17, 2013 from 7 pm at Wellington East Girls College.

Organising Committee member Varun Mehandiratta said that the proceeds of the show will be given to Oxfam New Zealand for distribution to the victims in the affected areas of Uttarakhand.

Noble target

“Our target is to donate $12,000 through the show, which would hopefully comprise an audience of 800 persons. India has suffered one of the most devastating floods and landslides in a century caused by unseasonal torrential rains. Flash flooding has completely destroyed some of the holiest pilgrim sites, small towns and sites of cultural significance in Uttarakhand, killing thousands of pilgrims and tourists and displacing many more. Relief efforts are underway by the Union and State Governments, with the support of several NGOs,” he said.

The programme will coincide with the 65^th anniversary of India’s Independence Day, he said and added that Oxfam, a confederation of 17 organisations working in 90 countries, had offered to assist in disbursing the amount collected.

“Talented performers from various parts of New Zealand will participate in ‘Saarang 2013.’ We are seeking support from organizations and individuals to make this fundraiser a success and achieve our goals of maximising donations,” Mr Mehandiratta said.

Talented performers

Among the artistes performing at the forthcoming event are singers Avish Sharma, Kanik Mongia, Rohan Walia, Ritika Badakere Shah, Sukanya Bhattacharya Suri, Yogeshwary Ambalaghan; Sri Lankan performer Ruvin Pattiaratchi; Rapper Dereck Schuil, dancer Chandni Contractor, Salsa dancers Julian Zhu & Yanita McLeay and Punjabi singer Puneet Khehra.

There would also be performances by the Punjabi Folk Dance Academy and Shivam Dance Academy.

Tickets priced at $20 can be purchased online at www.dashtickets.co.nz