Second Leader in Indian Newslink Digital Edition March 1, 2025
Venkat Raman
Auckland, March 2, 2025
The Wellington Indian Association, an epitome of unity and progress, celebrated its Centenary on March 1, 2025, marking a milestone that was not merely a testament to the passage of time but a celebration of resilience, community, and the indomitable spirit of the Indian Diaspora.
Like a mighty oak that has grown from a humble acorn, the Association stands tall today, its roots deeply embedded in the rich soil of history and its branches reaching out to embrace the future.
A hundred years ago, the Indian community in Wellington was but a fledgling group, navigating the tumultuous seas of migration and settlement. They arrived on these distant shores with dreams in their hearts and the weight of their heritage on their shoulders. The challenges they faced were manifold, akin to a ship braving a stormy ocean. They encountered cultural barriers, economic hardships, and the struggle to preserve their identity in a foreign land.
Resilient and Enduring
The Association was born out of this crucible of adversity. It was a lighthouse guiding the community through the fog of uncertainty, a sanctuary where they could find solace and strength. The founders of the Association, visionaries with hearts of gold, laid the foundation stone with the belief that unity is strength. They understood that a single thread can be easily broken, but a tapestry woven with many threads is resilient and enduring.
Over the decades, the Association has been a bridge over troubled waters, connecting generations and fostering a sense of belonging. It has been the hearth around which the community has gathered, sharing stories, traditions, and aspirations. Through festivals, cultural events, and educational programmes, the Association has kept the flame of heritage burning brightly, ensuring that the younger generations remain connected to their roots while embracing the opportunities of their new homeland.
The journey of the Wellington Indian Association is a saga of triumph over adversity, a testament to the power of community and the strength of the human spirit. It has been a catalyst for progress, encouraging its members to strive for excellence in all spheres of life. Like a gardener tending to a diverse garden, the Association has nurtured talent, fostered innovation and celebrated achievements. It has been a platform for voices to be heard, for dreams to be realised, and for the community to flourish.
Today, as it stands on the threshold of another Century, the Wellington Indian Association and its associates are the pride of the Nation. It is a shining example of what can be achieved when people come together with a common purpose and a shared vision. The Association has not only enriched the lives of its members but has also contributed to the multicultural tapestry of New Zealand.
It is a testament to the adage that “a rising tide lifts all boats,” as the progress of the Indian community has been intertwined with the progress of the nation.
In celebrating this Centenary, we honour the pioneers who laid the groundwork, the leaders who steered the ship, and the members who have been the lifeblood of the Association. We look to the future with hope and optimism, knowing that the Wellington Indian Association will continue to be a beacon of unity, progress, and pride for generations to come.
As we reflect on this remarkable journey, we are reminded of the proverb, “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” The Wellington Indian Association has indeed gone far, and its journey is far from over.
Salutations!
