One of the most interesting aspects of Diwali festivals currently underway in many parts of New Zealand is the presence and participation of various other ethnic groups, reinstating the concept of cultural plurality of our society.
Years ago, Diwali was the religious and social preserve of Hindus, with scanty and lukewarm participation of other Indians, including Muslims, Christians and even Buddhists. But the advent of ‘melas,’ exhibitions and other public events brought to their fold people of other religious and social beliefs, gradually converting them from observers to participants.
Diwali festivals held over the past two weeks in Auckland and Hamilton, notably that of Manukau Indian Association (Telstra Clear Pacific Events Centre on October 16) South Auckland and Indianz Global and the Global Organisation of People of Indian Origin (Open Air on October 23) enjoyed the participation of the wider communities.
In Hamilton for instance, apart from traditional and folk dances of South India (Bharata Natyam and the Harvest Dance) and Punjab (Bhangra), the Tibetan Dance and the Chinese Waist Drum Dance performed by the Chinese community were colourful and meaningful. There were also a few inevitable Bollywood numbers to lure the younger members of the society and their families and friends.
BNZ Partners (Title Sponsors of the Indian Newslink Indian Business Awards 2011) organised a Diwali get-together at their Highbrook complex, which saw the assembly of more than 200 people. They networked, developed new contacts, and enjoyed the sweets and a well-structured entertainment programme. The coming week will see similar Diwali events of ANZ Bank and ASB Bank.
“The Rugby World Cup occupied the minds and evenings of most New Zealanders. We will be better organised for conducting the Festival of Lights next year,” a number of organisers said.
