The event begins at 5 pm at Mangere War Memorial Hall
Venkat Raman
Auckland, April 7, 2023
The New Zealand Kannada Koota, the oldest Indian regional association in Auckland, will mark Ugadi as a family event on Saturday, April 15, 2023.
President Ajay Ravi said that the programme, which will include dinner, will have ‘a distinct touch of Karnataka and Kannada flavour.’
“The New Zealand Kannada Koota is on a mission to connect with the wider Kannada community and the Auckland Diaspora with a series of events including Ugadi, Ganesh Chaturthi, Rajyotsava and Sports Day. We have also planned programmes to attract the younger members of the community with Talent Shows, Antakshari and educational and Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics for children,” he said.
About the New Zealand Kannada Koota
Established in March 1994 by the late Professor Vamana Murthy as the Founder-President and Dr Lingappa Kalburgi as the Secretary, the New Zealand Kannada Koota aims to preserve, promote and project the cultural and linguistic heritage of Karnataka.
Over the years, the Association has also promoted friendship and respect between its members and the people of New Zealand, assisted new migrants from Karnataka to settle and fostered cooperation and understanding with other social and community welfare organisations.
The New Zealand Kannada Koota has also been a keen participant in the Annual Indian Newslink Festivals of South India, highlighting the State’s culture, costumes and cuisine.
About Ugadi in Karnataka
The following is the text (edited) from the Department of Tourism, Karnataka:
The auspicious festival of Ugadi is celebrated with joy and enthusiasm in Karnataka and other South Indian states. According to the Hindu Lunisolar calendar, Ugadi is observed on the first day of Chaitra. The name Ugadi originated from two Sanskrit words, ‘Yuga’ and ‘Adi,’ meaning a new beginning.
It is believed that Ugadi was the first day of the creation of the Universe. As per Hindu mythology, Lord Brahma created the Universe on this day.
Ugadi welcomes abundance, prosperity and happiness in the New Year.
The Festival holds a special place for the region as it marks the beginning of nature’s annual cycle and the onset of the spring season. Farming families prepare for the new season, hoping for plentiful produce.
Ugadi is also considered a sacred time to undertake new ventures.
Preparations for the day-long festivity begin a few days earlier with the cleaning of their homes. People begin the day with an oil bath and wear new clothes. The family gathers to pray for peace and prosperity for everyone in the society.
Later, people participate in cultural and religious pursuits and prepare a grand feast.
Bevu Bella, a special delicacy, captures the true essence of this pious day. It is made with tamarind, neem leaves, jaggery, raw mango, pepper, and salt. The dish signifies various human emotions, suggesting that the coming year will be filled with sweet-bitter life experiences.
Another significant part of Ugadi is decorating the front door with red earth and a beautiful string of mango and neem leaves. People also draw colourful patterns with rice flour, commonly known as Kolam or Rangoli in front of their houses.
Kannada Classes
The New Zealand Kannada Koota conducts Kannada Shaale, providing an opportunity for people to learn the language. Run by volunteers, the classes aim to bring Kannadigas and their children closer to the language and culture of Karnataka.
For more information, please write to nzkksecretary@gmail.com
