Dr Parmjeet Parmar –
Namaste and Happy Diwali!
As we come into the Diwali season, many people in New Zealand and around the world will be celebrating the festival of lights.
In marking Diwali, we celebrate the return of Lord Rama, Goddess Sita and Lakshman from exile. Diwali is about light prevailing over darkness and life over death.
It is a time to celebrate the good in life and be thankful for the people around us.
Diwali is also a time to reflect on the year that has passed and consider the year to come.
New Zealand celebrates
Diwali in New Zealand has grown to be enjoyed with large celebrations in our cities and in gatherings across the country. It is great to see the passion that people are putting into making Diwali a major event in New Zealand’s calendar.
Indians and Indian culture are increasingly accepted in New Zealand and are becoming more and more a part of New Zealand culture.
Diwali is also celebrated in Parliament as a notable event and the Diwali celebrations involve much more of the community than only Indian groups.
Rama Saga
In September, I spoke at the opening of ‘The Story of Rama’ exhibition in the Auckland Art Gallery. This exhibition has introduced New Zealanders to a classic saga of Indian literature, as well as unique artistic forms from different regions and eras.
It offers insights into Indian culture and the timeless legend behind the Diwali celebration, which I hope will generate discussion and foster cultural understanding among everyone, regardless of their origins.
New Zealand, and particularly Auckland, is increasingly multicultural.
The diverse cultural make-up of my electorate – Mount Roskill – reflects the growing diversity of New Zealand.
Understanding values
According to the 2013 census, just under half of Mount Roskill residents were born overseas. With so many cultures living side by side, it is important that we understand each other’s values and traditions.
As one of these migrants myself, it is important to me to preserve my culture and see it becoming a part of the new communities in which I live.
Our migrant communities continue to grow and having a familiar constant is vital for migrants to have continuity as they settle in new homes.
I hope everyone will take Diwali to their communities and share the spirit of Diwali with the people in their lives.
Dr Parmjeet Parmar is Member of Parliament on National Party List.
