A Late Story
Staff Reporter (from Content Received on March 14, 2025)
In the serene town of Rotorua, nestled amidst the geothermal wonders of New Zealand, the Hindu Council of New Zealand celebrated Makar Sankranti on January 12, 2025.
The event, held at the Hindu Heritage Centre, was a tapestry of cultural richness, drawing a spirited crowd of children, parents, volunteers, and community members.
The day began with the ceremonial lighting of a lamp, a traditional gesture symbolising the dispelling of darkness and the ushering in of knowledge and prosperity. Children from the Rotorua Hindi School and Hindu Scripture Classes recited Vedic Mantras and Slokas, their voices resonating with reverence and joy. This auspicious start set the tone for a day filled with activities marking the essence of Makar Sankranti.
Makar Sankranti has become a cherished tradition in Rotorua since 2005.
The event drew an enthusiastic crowd of children, parents, and volunteers from the Rotorua Hindi School, Hindu Scripture Classes, Yoga and Meditation groups, and members of the wider Rotorua community interested in Hindu culture.
Hindu Council of New Zealand President Dr Guna Magesan said that it was heartwarming to see children and youth actively engaging in these timeless traditions.
“Through such events, we ensure that our cultural roots are not only preserved but also embraced by the next generation with enthusiasm. The Rotorua Hindi School, which opened on October 2, 2021, has taken the lead in organising the festivities, ensuring that the cultural roots are preserved and embraced by the next generation with enthusiasm,” he said.
The Festival concluded with a communal feast, where participants shared traditional dishes and exchanged stories. The atmosphere was one of camaraderie and warmth, reflecting the spirit of Makar Sankranti. As the Sun set, the sky adorned with kites, the community of Rotorua celebrated not just a festival, but a shared heritage that transcends borders and generations.
Kite-Making Workshop
Among the highlights of the Festival was the kite-making workshop, led by the dedicated volunteer Urvi Dhruv Rao. She shared her expertise with the students, guiding them through the intricate process of crafting kites. This initiative aimed to equip educators with the skills to introduce the tradition to their students, thereby broadening the spirit of the Festival,
The excitement was palpable as children and adults took to the skies with their colourful kites, the vibrant hues dancing against the clear blue sky.
“Kite flying brought back so many childhood memories. It was wonderful to reconnect with this joyful tradition and share it with our children,” Meenakshi Gupta and Rekha Mehta, two adult participants said.
About Makar Sankranti
Makar Sankranti, celebrated annually on January 14 according to the Solar Calendar, is one of the most ancient and auspicious festivals in Hindu Dharma, with origins dating back over 5000 years. Known by various names across India such as Uttarayanam, Lohri, Bihu, Pongal and Bhogi, the Festival embodies unity in diversity, celebrating the richness of Hindu heritage.
The significance of Makar Sankranti lies in its astronomical and cultural importance. It marks the transition of the Sun God into the zodiac sign of Capricorn (Makara), signifying the end of the Winter Solstice and the beginning of longer days in the Northern Hemisphere.
This transition is celebrated as a time of renewal and hope, as the Sun God begins His northward journey (Uttarnayanam).
Makar Sankranti is also a Harvest Festival, with farmers reaping the fruits of their labour. It is a celebration of abundance and gratitude as communities come together to share their harvest and partake in Festive meals. It is marked by various regional customs and practices, from kite flying in Gujarat to the preparation of sweet delicacies made from sesame seeds and jaggery in Maharashtra. These customs, though varied, share a common thread of joy, togetherness, and Thanksgiving.
Ms Dhruv said that Makar Sankranti is more than a Festival.
“It is a celebration of life, togetherness, and shared heritage,” she said.
Makar Sankranti in Rotorua was more than just a celebration; it was a testament to the enduring cultural richness of Hindu traditions and the unity it fosters within the community. Through events like these, the Hindu Council of New Zealand continues to ensure that the vibrant tapestry of Hindu culture is preserved and cherished for years to come.
Dr Magesan said that the Hindu Heritage Centre remains committed to preserving, promoting, and celebrating the diverse cultural and spiritual heritage of Hindu Dharma, fostering a vibrant and inclusive community in Rotorua.
“Our vision is to create a space where people of all ages and backgrounds can come together, learn, and celebrate the rich tapestry of Hindu culture,” he said.
