Venkat Raman
Auckland, April 21, 2025
Kari Virunthu, an extraordinary culinary event that has evinced the interest of a cross-section of our communities will be held on Saturday, May 24, 2025.
About 2000 men and women are expected to the Third Edition of the event, which began in 2023, scheduled to be held at the Samoan Assemblies of God Church Hall, located at 38 Robertson Road, Favona, South Auckland from 11 am to 4 pm.
If the past experience is any indication, those without a reservation may risk of facing a ‘Sold Out’ announcement close to the event.
Tickets, priced at $30 per adult, $75 for a couple and one child, $85 for a couple and two children and $275 for a group of ten adults.
Sowndra Rajan, President of the Tamil Association of New Zealand Inc (TANZI), which is organising the event in association with Arasan New Zealand Trust, said that 20 items will be served in the Vegetarian and Non-Vegetarian sections of the event.
A grand South Indian Feast
“Kari Virunthu is a grand feast, deeply rooted in the traditions of Tamil Nadu, will include the delicacies of other neighbouring States including Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Kerala. It promises an unparalleled sensory experience, celebrating the rich culinary heritage of South India. The Festival is more than just a food event; it is a celebration of legacy, a moment of communal bonding, and a tribute to the artistry of South Indian cuisine,” he said.
Kari Virunthu has long been an integral part of Tamil cultural traditions. Historically, such feasts were occasions for families and communities to gather and share elaborate spreads, meticulously prepared using time-honoured methods.
The Festival in Auckland seeks to recreate this experience, offering attendees the chance to savour authentic flavours served traditionally on banana leaves, enhancing the sensory delight and authenticity of the meal.
The dishes presented at Kari Virunthu will encapsulate the diversity and depth of Tamil culinary traditions. The menu is a masterful curation of both vegetarian and non-vegetarian fare, showcasing the signature spices and techniques that have defined South Indian gastronomy for centuries. Among the most anticipated dishes are the robust and spicy Chettinad Chicken Curry, infused with freshly ground spices; the tender and aromatic Mutton Sukka (Fry), slow-cooked to perfection; the crisp Nellai Karuvadu Curry, bursting with deep-fried flavour; and the celebrated Tomato Rasam. Also making a grand appearance will be the famed Ambur Biryani, a dish synonymous with Tamil Nadu’s intricate rice preparations, and a wide selection of vegetarian delicacies, including Paruppu Vadai, Kootu, and Sambar. Each dish will be expertly prepared by skilled chefs and passionate volunteers, ensuring that authenticity is preserved in every bite.
A Cultural Occasion
Beyond the elaborate spread of flavours, Kari Virunthu stands as a significant cultural occasion. While food is undoubtedly the highlight, the Festival embraces the broader artistic heritage of Tamil Nadu, featuring traditional music and dance performances that represent the spirit of the region. Attendees will be treated to the rhythmic beats of traditional and folk dances that carry deep historical significance, as well as classical dances that embody grace and storytelling through movement.
Kari Virunthu has grown to become an essential part of Auckland’s cultural landscape, attracting thousands of attendees with each edition. The upcoming Festival is expected to draw an even larger audience, including food enthusiasts, cultural aficionados, and members of the Tamil diaspora eager to reconnect with their roots. Distinguished figures from the community and local government are also expected to partake, further emphasising the significance of this event in fostering cross-cultural appreciation.
More than a mere gastronomic indulgence, Kari Virunthu holds profound importance in preserving the culinary traditions of Tamil Nadu. In an age where globalisation has led to the fusion and adaptation of cuisines, this Festival stands as a testament to authenticity, ensuring that ancient recipes and techniques continue to be celebrated and passed down to future generations. It is an opportunity for younger members of the Tamil community to engage with their cultural heritage while also introducing the wider public to the depth and complexity of South Indian gastronomy.
Bridging tradition and modernity
Kari Virunthu promises an unforgettable experience that bridges tradition and modern appreciation.
Mr Sowndra Rajan invite all food lovers to partake in this grand celebration of Tamil cuisine. Tickets for the event will be available online, allowing both longtime aficionados of South Indian flavours and newcomers eager to explore this remarkable culinary tradition to secure their place at the feast.
As Auckland prepares for Kari Virunthu, excitement builds for what promises to be a a good occasion. The Festival is not merely an event but a journey into the history, flavours, and cultural expressions of Tamil Nadu, extending to the whole of South India. Whether one is seeking the fiery depth of Chettinad spices, the fragrant embrace of a perfectly cooked biryani, or the rhythmic allure of Tamil folk music, Kari Virunthu is a unique experience. The essence of South India will be brought to life in the heart of Auckland, reaffirming that food is more than sustenance, it is history, emotion, and a bridge between past and present.
