Vineeta Rao
Auckland, June 18, 2025
A near sell-out audience of 700 gathered at Auckland’s Avondale College on Saturday, 31 May, for a mesmerising evening of dance and devotion, as TAAL New Zealand brought the divine tales of Lord Krishna to life in its production, Krishna Leela.
But this was not a night of mere storytelling through movement, it was a powerful fundraiser with a global mission. The performance marked a key milestone in TAAL’s journey to represent New Zealand on the international stage at the Diwali Dance Fest 2025 in Walt Disney World, Florida.
Chosen from over 200 global applicants, TAAL is the only team from New Zealand and Australia invited to perform at this prestigious cultural showcase.
Culture and Cause intertwined
Blending traditional and contemporary Indian dance forms, Krishna Leela captivated the crowd with vivid visuals, expressive choreography, and emotionally resonant scenes drawn from Hindu mythology.
“Our goal was to honour our culture while rallying community support for our dancers’ international journey and the response exceeded our expectations,” said Tanvi Kaushal, Founder and Managing Trustee of TAAL New Zealand.
The show is the latest achievement from the not-for-profit arts organisation, which has built a strong reputation for excellence in performance. Their Ram Leela performance at the 2024 Waitakere Diwali Festival won widespread praise for its narrative depth and aesthetic beauty.
A Platform for Kiwi-Indian Talent
With Krishna Leela, TAAL continues to spotlight the strength and diversity of New Zealand’s Indian arts community. The fundraiser brought together families, supporters, and sponsors who share a vision of seeing Kiwi-Indian youth thrive on the global stage.
The organisation extended its heartfelt thanks to audience members, donors, and sponsors who are making their journey possible.
Next Stop Walt Disney World
TAAL New Zealand will travel to Florida later this year to participate in the Diwali Dance Fest, a global celebration of Indian culture hosted within the iconic Walt Disney World Resort. The team hopes to not only represent New Zealand with pride but to build bridges of cultural exchange and inspire a new generation of diasporic performers.
For those interested in supporting TAAL’s international campaign through donations, partnerships or sponsorship, contact details and social media links are available below.
taal.nz@hotmail.com; 0274075527
Instagram @taal.nz | Facebook @TAAL New Zealand
Vineeta Rao is an Indian Newslink Reporter based in Auckland.
