At the Eleventh Annual Indian Newslink Sports, Community, Arts & Culture Awards
Venkat Raman
Auckland, July 1, 2025
We are looking forward to your company at the Eleventh Annual Indian Newslink Sports, Community, Arts, and Culture Awards 2025 Presentation Ceremony will be held on Monday, July 21, 2025 from 5.30 pm at Mahatma Gandhi Centre, 145, New North Road, Eden Terrace, Auckland City. Tickets, priced at $115 and tables seating ten persons at each table at $1150 per table (inclusive of GST) are on sale are moving swiftly.
Please reserve your seats early.
The Awards Ceremony will feature speeches, entertainment, a formal dinner, and the much-anticipated presentation of accolades. As in previous years, the audience will include political, business, and community leaders, alongside a diverse cross-section of New Zealand society.
For over a decade, the Indian Newslink Sports, Community, Arts, and Culture Awards have stood as a beacon of recognition, illuminating the remarkable contributions of individuals and groups across New Zealand. Now, as the Eleventh Annual ceremony approaches, excitement builds for an evening dedicated to honouring the spirit of achievement and the enduring power of community. These Awards, which began their journey in 2012, have become an indispensable thread in the rich tapestry of New Zealand’s cultural and social landscape, consistently bringing to the forefront the talents and dedication that enrich our nation.
The Eleventh Annual Indian Newslink Sports, Community, Arts, and Culture Awards 2025 Presentation Ceremony sets the pace for recognition of talent, dedication and effort.
Honouring Elite Sporting Talent
The Indian Newslink Sports Awards segment also features the Elite Sports Awards, a special recognition segment coordinated by Bhikhu Bhana and Ravi Nyayapati. This category shines a spotlight on sports achievers who have excelled in their respective disciplines, leaving an indelible mark through their dedication and influence. Mr Bhana, with his extensive background as a representative player in both cricket and hockey, brings a wealth of understanding to the sporting landscape. Mr Nyayapati, a noted figure in transformation and governance with a long corporate history and current board roles in sports organisations, ensures a comprehensive and discerning approach to identifying top talent. Together, they oversee a process that celebrates both current stars and the ‘yesteryear players’ who have made significant contributions, ensuring a comprehensive honouring of sporting legacies within the community. These Elite Awards underscore Indian Newslink’s commitment to acknowledging the pinnacle of athletic achievement and fostering inspiration across generations.
Recognising Sporting Prowess
The Sports category of these Awards is dedicated to celebrating those who have demonstrated exceptional skill, dedication, and sportsmanship. It is an opportunity to honour the athletes who push boundaries, inspire with their achievements, and represent the very best of their chosen disciplines. From the rising stars to the seasoned veterans, this category recognises the relentless training, the strategic thinking, and the sheer passion that drives sporting success. It acknowledges not only victories on the field, court, or track but also the profound impact these individuals have in fostering healthy lifestyles and inspiring future generations of athletes within the community. The Awards shine a light on the stories of perseverance, resilience, and the unwavering pursuit of athletic greatness that ultimately uplift and unite us.
Commemorating Enduring Legacies
Beyond the above categories, the Indian Newslink Commemoration Awards hold a special place, honouring individuals whose profound impact continues to resonate within New Zealand and beyond. These prestigious Awards include the Raman (Ray) Ranchhod, the Wenceslaus Anthony, Dr Robert Lateef Khan (Senior), the Ravin Lal, Baljit Kaur and NVR Swami Memorial Awards and the Indian Newslink Special Commemoration Awards.
These Awards are presented to outstanding individuals and institutions that have demonstrated exemplary leadership, innovation and unwavering commitment to public service, leaving an indelible mark on New Zealand society. These Awards collectively serve as a powerful reminder of the lasting legacies of remarkable people, inspiring future generations to strive for excellence and contribute meaningfully to their communities.
Honouring Community Spirit
The Community Awards pay heartfelt tribute to the unsung heroes who form the backbone of our society. This category is a testament to the selfless commitment of community workers, volunteers, and countless others who generously dedicate their time, energy, and unwavering effort to serving the collective good. These are the individuals who tirelessly work behind the scenes, often without expectation of recognition, to uplift those in need, foster social cohesion, and build stronger, more inclusive neighbourhoods. Their contributions range from organising local events and supporting charitable causes to providing essential services and advocating for vulnerable groups. The community Awards acknowledge the immense value of their altruism, celebrating the spirit of compassion and the profound positive impact they have on the lives of countless individuals and families across New Zealand.
Applauding Artistic Innovation
Within the Arts category, the Indian Newslink Awards broaden their scope to celebrate the diverse talents of non-performing artists, recognising the ingenuity and creativity that shape our visual and aesthetic landscape. This includes a rich array of professionals such as designers, photographers, cinematographers, and other visionary individuals whose work enriches our cultural experience. These Awards acknowledge the meticulous craftsmanship, innovative approaches, and artistic vision that go into creating compelling visual narratives, evocative imagery, and impactful designs. They highlight the artists who master their mediums, pushing the boundaries of creativity and contributing significantly to the aesthetic vibrancy of our communities. It is a celebration of the unique perspectives and technical mastery that elevate our everyday lives through beautiful and thought-provoking artistic expressions.
Preserving and Embellishing Culture
The Culture Awards celebrate those who are dedicated to the preservation, promotion, and embellishment of cultural heritage. This category recognises the invaluable contributions of dancers, musicians, teachers, and other cultural practitioners who ensure that traditions are kept alive, evolve, and continue to inspire new generations. These Awards honour the individuals who, through their performances, teachings, and creative expressions, deepen our understanding of diverse cultural narratives and contribute to a vibrant multicultural society. Whether through classical forms or contemporary interpretations, these cultural custodians play a vital role in fostering a sense of identity, belonging, and shared appreciation for the rich tapestry of human expression. Their work not only entertains but also educates, connects, and ensures the enduring legacy of cultural practices.
Secure Your Place
To be a part of this inspiring evening and witness the recognition of these exceptional achievements, please reserve your seats. The minimum age for attendance is 14 years. This is a unique opportunity to celebrate alongside New Zealand’s political, business, and community leaders, and to show your support for the individuals and groups who are making significant differences in sports, community, arts, and culture.
For further information, please email venkat@indiannewslink.nz