Chinar Chitale
Auckland, October 20, 2024
The Auckland Marathi Association celebrated Ganesh Utsav 2024 on September 21, 2024 at Mahatma Gandhi Centre in Auckland, creating a vibrant and divine atmosphere that captivated all attendees.
The event saw community members adorned in traditional Marathi attire, showcasing their rich cultural heritage.
The festivities commenced with the arrival of Ganapati Bappa, marked by a performance of Dhol Tasha by Heramb Dhol Tasha Pathak. The rhythm of the drums echoed throughout the venue as community members joined the joyous celebration, dancing and playing the Lezim (or Laziam, a popular Marathi form of dance) while chanting “Ganapati Bappa Morya.”
Pious Music and Dance
Tejas Guruji led the Ceremonial Pooja, Sthapana and Aarti, enriching the spiritual ambience of the event. The programme featured a series of remarkable performances, including a rendition of ‘Ekdantaya Vakratunday,’ composed by Ajay Atul and sung by the renowned Shankar Mahadevan.
Attendees were mesmerised by classical singing, Kathak Dance and other traditional performances that highlighted the talent within the community.
The Ceremony included a traditional Tilak welcome for all guests, followed by a collective Maha Aarti, where everyone gathered to pray for good health and prosperity.
The Celebration culminated with a delicious Prasad lunch for all members, fostering community spirit. The event concluded with an exhilarating performance by Heramb Dhol Tasha Pathak, getting everyone back on their feet to dance and celebrate.
Political and Community Leaders
The event was attended by National MP Carlos Cheung, former New Zealand First MP Mahesh Bindra, Hindu Swayam Sevak Sangh National Committee Member and Seva International New Zealand Coordinator Vishram Wadnerkar, New Zealand Indian Central Association President Narendra Bhana, NZICA General Secretary Prakash Biradar, Former Hindu Council President Vinod Kumar, Waikato Marathi Association President Shrungali Gupte and Indian Newslink Editor.
AMAI President Chinar Chitale and Vice President Devadatta Paranjape honoured these leaders with a framed image of Ganapati Bappa as a token of appreciation.
In a heartfelt farewell, we performed Ganapati Visarjan on the same day, bidding Bappa goodbye and eagerly anticipating his return next year.
Ganapati Bappa Morya!
We extend our gratitude to all the volunteers, sponsors, and committee members for their unwavering dedication and hard work in making this event a resounding success.
Chinar Chitale is the President of the Auckland Marathi Association. He sent us the pictures appearing in this article.
