Hamilton Diwali Mela celebrated with community spirit and young participants

Praneeta Mahajan

Hamilton, 17 October 2022

Anne Cao with the performer (photo supplied)

The Indian community in Hamilton is ready with the onset of the festive season, and Diwali, which is one of the most prominent festivals, celebrated across India is just around the corner.

While the last two years have been challenging for all community gatherings and events, this year’s celebrations across Hamilton have made up for the lost opportunities last year through the sheer enthusiasm and exuberance with which the community is coming together to plan and celebrate together.

One such event was the Hamilton Diwali Mela, where members collaborated and planned an event highlighting the spirit of Diwali, which is an amalgamation of traditional food, music, dance and gifting.

Hamilton Diwali Mela (photo supplied)

The evening started with the recitation of some chanting of ‘Om’ followed by the Gayatri mantra by Ms Usha Patel. Incorporating the message of the International day of the girl child by UNICEF, She also shared how India has valued Goddess worship and feminine energies of the universe through age-old prayers and traditions.

The celebration further saw kids and youth performers creating a wonderful ambience through dance, speeches and even a kid’s fashion show.

Hiva Raj, a young 10 year performer for the evening Talking about the Diwali celebrations, Ms Suman Kapoor, an active member of the community in Hamilton and key organizer for the Hamilton Diwali Mela said “It is great to see the spirit of inclusion and genuine interest in our traditions from the wider Hamilton audience. We have seen the event get more and more support with every passing year and hope to continue this wonderful initiative for the next generation to witness.”Some of the special guests for the evening were Tim Macindoe, former Member of the New Zealand Parliament, Mr Manu Manoharan from the United Nations Association and Anne Cao of English Tree manor. Anne is also the organizer of the Hamilton Cherry Blossom festival and known for promoting cultural inclusion in Hamilton.

Tim Macindoe with Ms Suman Kapoor and a guest (photo supplied)

A traditional dinner was also served for the guests, where people from varied ethnic backgrounds came together to share a communal feast. The organisers also arranged complimentary snacks and gifts for all the attendees.

Many applauded the involvement and enthusiasm of the young kids who not only participated in the festivities but also inspired everyone with their genuine interest and willingness to both to learn about Diwali and share their idea of the celebration and its significance with the crowds.

Praneeta Mahajan is an Indian Newslink Reporter based in Hamilton.