Venkat Raman
Auckland, April 9, 2024
A group of Tamil lovers, keen to promote the cultural and social heritage of the community has formed a new Association based in the South Auckland suburb of Papakura.
The ‘New Zealand Kiwi Tamil Samoogam’ will mark its inaugural ceremony on Sunday, April 21, 2024 from 5.30 pm at the Papakura Hawkins Theatre located at 13 Ray Small Drive, Papakura.
Vineetha Uthamaputhiran, Chairperson of the Association said that the event will include a cultural programme presented by children and adults.
(Photo Supplied)
“The New Zealand Kiwi Tamil Samoogam is a vibrant cultural hub, bringing together the rich traditions and heritage of the Tamil community. Our Samoogam is a melting pot of diverse talents, bridging generations and fostering a sense of unity among Tamilians,” she said.
Ms Uthamaputhiran said that the ‘Samoogam’ conducts Tamil language classes as a part of its efforts to encourage young people and others to be a part of the heritage.
“We aim to preserve and promote the unique essence of Tamil culture through a plethora of cultural events, language classes, and festive celebrations. From traditional music and dance performances to language workshops and culinary delights, our Samoogam is a platform where Tamil identity thrives. We invite you to join us on this enriching journey as we celebrate the beauty of Tamil culture, connect with like-minded individuals, and contribute to the tapestry of New Zealand’s multicultural landscape,” she said.
About the Tamil Diaspora
According to some estimates, the Tamil Diaspora (including all Tamil-speaking peoples) accounts for about 90 million people residing in 50 countries across the Continents.
The late V Sivasupramaniam, a Tamil Scholar, wrote a series of articles in Indian Newslink extolling the rich cultural heritage and literature of the Tamil people.
He said that in many places of settlement, the unity of the Tamil people was consolidated by struggle, suffering and aspiration for a brighter future for their successive generations.
He quoted Father Henry Heras, a famous Indian historian of Spanish origin as saying that Tamil is the oldest of the languages known to humankind.
“As a powerful Dravidian language, Tamil is perhaps the only example of an ancient language which has survived as a spoken language for more than 2500 years with its basic structure almost unchanged. The name ‘Tamil’ is itself unique, meaning ‘sweetness’ and ‘coolness.’ Language and culture are two facets of the same identity and a major cultural element,” he said.
Mr Sivasupramaniam said that isolated Diaspora communities often preserve their cultural heritage much more than their brethren in their homeland.
“The digital revolution is not only accelerating the process of globalisation but also strengthening the bonds of the diaspora forging a new cultural, economic and political togetherness of a people and deep-rooted kinship ties and finding fresh avenues for expression. The dual orientation towards the country of origin and the country of resettlement is not as contradictory and paradoxical as it seems. In fact, some people with homes in two countries show an amazing capacity to maintain dual identities, with strong cultural ties and contributions to both places,” he said.
From our Archives
Tamil crosses territories to bind people
Tamil culture inspires Continental Europe
Veteran Tamil Scholar passes away
Unity and Belonging
Ms Uthamaputhiran said that the Mission of the Samoogam is to create a sense of unity and belonging among Tamil-speaking people in New Zealand and engage with the youth to ensure the continuation of traditions.
“We aim to instil pride and identity among Tamilians and strengthen their connection to their cultural roots. We aim to use cultural events and celebrations to showcase Tamil traditions, festivals, and cultural milestones. We also support youth initiatives by creating platforms and programs for youth involvement in cultural activities and leadership roles,” she said.
Among the other officials of the Samoogam are Ganesh Rengaraju (Secretary) and Poonkundran Kulanthaisamy (Head Coordinator).
Further details can be obtained from Vineetha Uthamaputhiran on 021-1056295 or Ganesh Rengaraju on 027-4768065. Email: contactus@kiwitamilsamoogam.co.nz
Website: www.Kiwitamilsamoogam.co.nz
