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Rajesh Parappil (Edited)
Auckland, May 18, 2025
The Malayali Hindu Community in Auckland marked Vishu with fervour on April 26, 2025.
Organised by the outgoing Committee of the Organisation of Hindu Malayalees, New Zealand (OHM NZ) at Shri Shirdi Saibaba Sansthan in Onehunga, it brought together the local Malayalee Hindu community and guests to honour the timeless spirit of prosperity, unity, and cultural heritage.
Vishu, a Festival deeply woven into the cultural and spiritual fabric of Kerala, marks the traditional Malayalam New Year. It is a time of immense joy, hopeful new beginnings, and profound religious significance for the Malayalee community dispersed across the globe.
OHM NZ stands as a beacon for the Malayalee Hindu community in New Zealand. Dedicated to serving its members and fostering a sense of togetherness far from their ancestral homeland, this Organisation has been instrumental in organising a diverse array of cultural and religious events, each a vibrant thread in the rich tapestry of Malayalee life in Aotearoa.
The Vishu celebration of 2025 was a shining testament to their unwavering commitment to promoting and preserving the unique traditions and deeply held values of Malayalee Hindus in their adopted home. As a spiritual and cultural centre, Shri Shirdi Saibaba Sansthan provided a serene and fitting atmosphere for prayers, music, and joyful communal interactions.
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A Sacred Spectacle
Central to any Vishu celebration is Vishu Kani, a carefully arranged collection of auspicious items, each imbued with symbolic meaning, designed to be the first sight upon waking on Vishu morning.
Displayed prominently in the auditorium of the Sansthan, the Vishu Kani for the Auckland community was a vision of hope and abundance. Before the idol of Lord Krishna, the embodiment of Divine love and wisdom, there were the following: vibrant Konna Konna (Kani Konna) flowers (Cassia fistula) with their golden-yellow blossoms heralding prosperity; a selection of fresh fruits including mangoes, bananas, and jackfruit, alongside seasonal vegetables, representing nature’s bounty; leaming coins and gold ornaments signifying wealth and the Blessings of Goddess Lakshmi; freshly laundered white Kasavu Mundu (a traditional Kerala garment with golden border) symbolising purity and new beginnings; a polished brass mirror, the Valkannadi, to reflect the devotee’s face amidst these symbols of good fortune, signifying that one becomes what one beholds.
Alongside these were grains, coconuts, betel leaves, areca nuts, and a Grantham (Holy Scripture), all illuminated by the gentle glow of a traditional oil lamp, the Nilavilakku, dispelling darkness and ushering in enlightenment.
The preparation of the Kani is itself a ritual, often done by the elders of the family on the eve of Vishu, ensuring it is ready for the auspicious viewing at dawn.
The Vishu Kaineettam
The day’s programme commenced with the tradition of Vishu Kaineettam.
This cherished custom involves the elder members of the community bestowing a coin, typically silver or gold, upon the children and younger members. This act is far more than a simple monetary gift; it is a profound blessing, a tangible symbol of shared prosperity, good fortune, and the wishes of elders for a successful and happy year ahead for the younger generation.
The smiles on the faces of the children as they received their Kaineettam were a pure reflection of the joy and hope that Vishu embodies. This ritual beautifully reinforces intergenerational bonds and the continuity of tradition.
Among the guests were the Consular General of India in Auckland Dr Madan Mohan Sethi, Mt Roskill National MP Carlos Cheung and many other community leaders.
Cultural Performances and Sadhya
The heart of the celebration pulsed with an array of stunning cultural programmes, each performance a vivid showcase of the depth and dynamism of Malayalee artistic traditions. The stage came alive with melodious Malayalam songs, presented by the talented musicians of Auckland Beats, the soulful Jayashree Sitaraman, and the gifted Ravi Muthumanickam. Their music, ranging from devotional hymns to popular folk tunes, evoked nostalgia and filled the air with the sweet sounds of Kerala.
Dance, an integral part of Keralan culture, was represented in its glorious diversity. The audience was treated to captivating performances of Bharata Natyam, its intricate footwork, expressive mudras (hand gestures), and graceful movements telling ancient stories of gods and heroes.
Classical and semi-classical dances further showcased the elegance and discipline of traditional Indian dance forms. A mesmerising Kathak fusion piece blended the storytelling prowess of Kathak with contemporary influences, creating a dynamic and engaging spectacle.
Several dance schools and troupes, each renowned for their dedication to their art form, contributed to the visual feast. They included Anuradha School of Dance, Padma’s School of Indian Classical Dance and Tapasya School of Dance, the students of which presented exquisite classical items.
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Varaveena Dance Company, Team Thaalam, and Yaatra Dance School captivated the audience with their skilled performances, showcasing both traditional and innovative choreographies. The younger generation also shone brightly, with Team Kuttipattalam delighting everyone with their youthful energy and charm. Solo and small group performances by talented individuals like Malavika, Ayra Bijilesh and Megha Swaraj, Soumya, Aswathy and Ashwini, and Shradha Rishi added further layers of artistry and grace. Team Beat Breakerz brought a contemporary and energetic flair to the stage, demonstrating the evolving nature of cultural expression.
A particularly delightful segment was a charming skit performed by the children from OHM NZ’s Ente Keralam (My Kerala) Malayalam language and cultural classes. Their performance, filled with innocence and enthusiasm, not only entertained but also highlighted the importance of nurturing cultural understanding and language skills from a young age. It was a heartwarming reminder of the efforts to ensure that the heritage continues to thrive in the hearts of the community’s youngest members.
The Kerala Sadhya completed the Festival. This is not merely a meal; it is a grand traditional vegetarian feast, a culinary masterpiece that showcases the incredible gastronomic diversity of Kerala. Meticulously prepared and served with love, the Sadhya is an elaborate affair featuring a multitude of dishes, each with its unique flavour profile.
OHM NZ Committee Transition
Following the joyous Vishu celebrations, an important organisational milestone took place: the new OHM NZ committee for the 2025-26 term officially took over the reins of managing the Organisation’s activities for the coming year. This transition of leadership was a significant moment for the community. The Outgoing Committee was thanked for its dedicated service and achievements, while the New Committee Members were welcomed with enthusiasm and support. They committed to continuing the vital work of fostering cultural enrichment, spiritual well-being, and community cohesion within the Malayalee Hindu community in New Zealand.
This seamless transition underscored the organisation’s robust structure and the collective desire to see it flourish.
The Vishu celebrations organised by OHM NZ in Auckland were, by all accounts, a resounding success.
The meticulous planning, the harmonious blend of sacred religious rituals, the vibrant and captivating cultural performances, and the joyous communal partaking of the traditional Sadhya created an unforgettable experience for every person who attended.
From the serene and hopeful first glimpse of the Vishu Kani to the shared laughter and conversation over the delicious feast, the event beautifully captured the very essence of Kerala’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage. More than just a festival, it was a powerful expression of the Malayalee Hindu community’s profound dedication to preserving their cherished traditions and values, ensuring that they not only survive but continue to thrive and enrich the multicultural landscape of New Zealand for generations to come. It was a day where traditions were honoured, community bonds were strengthened, and the promise of a prosperous New Year was embraced with open hearts.
Rajesh Parappil is the Vice-President of the Organisation of Hindu Malayalees, New Zealand (OHM NZ). His Report was edited and enhanced at the Indian Newslink Copydesk.
