Everyday does not witness an organisation celebrating its Platinum Jubilee.
Every organisation does not live to mark 75 years of its existence.
The jubilation at the Pukekohe Indian Association (PIA) on November 13, 2011 was therefore not only justified but was far more significant than many other similar functions held over the years.
That was because, far from marking just an occasion, the PIA made a statement: that amidst adversity emerges strength, spirit of unity, the feeling of oneness and most important of all, a sense of purpose.
Indian Newslink was established only 12 years ago but even in this short span, we have had several occasions to rejoice with the members of the PIA and admire their landmarks and achievements, ranging from Diwali celebrations to the Golden Jubilee of the Nehru Hall and other events.
Solemnity and fun
It was therefore a pleasure and privilege, multiplied at least 75 times, to be present at the Platinum Jubilee, greet some of the stalwarts of the Pukekohe Indian community, be awestruck perusing the long list of achievements scored over the years, listen to the progress made by Indians and exchange greetings with people.
It was an evening of solemnity, entertainment and fun that brought together more than 450 Indians from far and near and people of other ethnic groups.
For many seniors including Bharat Bhana, Bhikhu Bhana, Ganges Singh, Harshad Bhula, Ishvar Rambhai, Jayanti Patel, Magan Ranchhod and Pritipal Singh (just to mention a few – we are aware the list is long and there were several others who have contributed significantly to the progress of the community), it was a day of gratification.
The Platinum Jubilee brought to the fore one inescapable fact: that the prosperity of Indians in Pukekohe today was by no means easy and certainly not an overnight achievement. Their ancestors had to endure years of struggle, discrimination and even ridicule, work hard and become successful in their profession and in the society.
PIA President Bhikhu Bhana wrote the following for Indian Newslink:
The pioneering ancestors started arriving in New Zealand from early 1900s.
The Platinum Jubilee was an opportune time for members to reflect on the difficulties and tribulations that they endured and their foresight and desire to succeed. The ensuing generations were built on the strong foundation of the efforts of their forefathers, allowing everyone to enjoy the lifestyle and freedom.
Cultural performances
The evening’s programme included a blend of cultural items, speeches, recognition of service and dinner.
Celebration, entertainment, enjoyment and fellowship were the focus of the proceedings.
Auspicious occasions commence with the Ganesh Puja and it was therefore appropriate that the first item was the ‘Ganesh Aarti’ performed by senior women of the community arranged by Monaben Bhana.
The cultural performances by children and the youth of the community were a tribute to their parents, families and to their own discipline, commitment and passion.
Other items included a candle dance performed by the students of our Culture class, arranged by Jyotiben and Priyaben Kana, classical dance by the Kanji Sisters Nikita, Ashlina and Shahani and ‘Des Rangila’ patriotic dance (organised by Devyaniben Jivan).
The highlight of the cultural programme was ‘Pukekohe through the Ages’, a tribute to the past and present generations. Performed by 40 women representing three generations, it included a blend of the ‘Garba’ and other traditional styles of Indian fine arts.
Among the speakers at the event were National MP Dr Paul Hutchison, New Zealand Indian Central Association Vice-President Harshad Patel, Councellor Des Morrison and Trustee of the PIA Board of Trustees Ishvar Rambhai.
Ganges Singh, Narendrabhai Master and Mr Rambhai received certificates of Life Membership at the event.
