Praneeta Mahajan
Hamilton, October 30, 2024
This Saturday, November 2, 2024, the annual Waikato Diwali Mela returns to Hamilton’s Innes Common by Lake Rotoroa, expecting to draw an impressive crowd of over 10,000, according to the organisers.
Against the scenic lake views, the festival will be a cultural immersion into India’s rich heritage, the festival is a collaborative effort led by Hamilton City Council, the Indian High Commission, and various cultural organisations. It continues to be one of Waikato’s premier multicultural events, fostering unity, inclusivity, and community pride.
Honouring community and cultural ties
Some of the distinguished guests attending the event include Indian High Commissioner to New Zealand Neeta Bhushan, Māori Development Minister Tama Potaka, Hamilton East MP Ryan Hamilton, and Minister of Social Development Louise Upston.
Event organiser and Head of Events for the Indian Cultural Society Waikato, Jujhar (Jay) Singh Randhawa, shared his appreciation for the community’s support, noting, “Hamilton and the greater Waikato community is setting an example of support and inclusion. The future generations are learning about cultures, celebrations, and building an inclusive community values, and the contribution of everyone involved cannot be undermined.”
Mr Randhawa said, “Diwali, known as the Festival of Lights, is one of the most significant holidays in Hindu culture, symbolising the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. This celebration has taken on broader significance in New Zealand, where communities gather to honour Diwali as a joyful, multicultural event that highlights the rich tapestry of Indian heritage and the spirit of unity that underpins Aotearoa.”
Collaborating with the community
In addition to the numerous cultural and community organisations represented, Harcourts Real Estate has long been a committed supporter of the Waikato Diwali Mela. Arjun Mahajan of Harcourts expressed his enthusiasm about her association with the festival and said, “Diwali Mela is a wonderful opportunity for the entire community to come together and celebrate. It has been rewarding to be part of such a meaningful event that highlights our multicultural heritage and connects so many people.”
His colleague and team member, Yvenna Yue, echoed the sentiments, sharing, “Being part of the Diwali Mela gives us a chance to support an event that reflects the diverse fabric of Hamilton. It is about more than celebration. It is about building bridges and strengthening community ties.”
Representatives from St John Ambulance, New Zealand Police, Cancer Society Hamilton, and other organisations will also be present, ensuring a safe and welcoming environment for attendees from all backgrounds.
Flavour and performances
This year, organisers are eager to expand on that success, drawing in members from Hamilton and the wider Waikato region, along with visitors of all nationalities who are ready to partake in the festive spirit.
Festival-goers will enjoy a feast of flavours, with vendors serving up popular Indian street snacks and delicacies from various parts of India. The main stage will host a variety of performances, including classical Indian dances and traditional folk dances like bhangra and garba.
Local artists and cultural groups, alongside students, have dedicated extensive hours of practice to bring these performances to life, highlighting the community’s dedication and talent.
Spectacular fireworks by the lake
As dusk falls, the festival will culminate in a fireworks display over Lake Rotoroa in Hamilton. The grand finale, lighting up the night sky and reflecting off the lake, will be a tribute to Diwali’s message of light overcoming darkness.
Mr Randhawa said, “This fireworks display, set against the scenic lake, promises to be a breath-taking sight and a highlight of the evening. Families, friends, and community members gathered by the water will be able to witness the festival’s culmination, a scene that epitomises the unity and joy Diwali brings.”
A unified community
Mr Randhawa highlighted the significance of the event and said, “The Waikato Diwali Mela has become a cherished tradition in Hamilton, celebrating Indian culture while inviting people of all backgrounds to join in the festival’s spirit. With support from Hamilton City Council, the Indian High Commission, sponsors, and volunteers, the event offers a unique opportunity to experience Diwali in the heart of New Zealand, drawing in attendees from across the Waikato region and beyond.”
As Innes Common fills with the colours, sounds, and scents of Diwali, the festival will celebrate Hamilton’s commitment to unity, understanding, and shared community values.
Festival of light and renewal
Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, is one of the most celebrated festivals in India and holds deep spiritual significance. The holiday symbolises the victory of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and good over evil. Traditionally observed by lighting oil lamps and candles, Diwali marks the return of Lord Rama to his kingdom after a 14-year exile, according to the epic Ramayana. It also honours Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity, and is a time when families come together to pray for health, happiness, and success in the coming year. Beyond its religious roots, Diwali embodies universal themes of renewal, positivity, and generosity, making it a celebration embraced by people of various backgrounds around the world. Through gatherings, festive meals, and the sharing of sweets and gifts, Diwali brings people closer, reminding communities of the importance of hope, unity, and new beginnings.
Praneeta Mahajan is a former Reporter of Indian Newslink based in Hamilton.
