There are events, and then there are events for a cause.
And a fundraising event- South Indian Food Festival – by New Zealand Telugu Association (NZTA) fell in the latter category.
The event took place on Saturday (25th February 2023) at Thiru Subramaniyar Temple at Mangere and was attended by approximately 250 people.
Dignitaries such as former NZ First MP Mahesh Bindra; Waitakere Indian Association President Sunil Kaushal; President of New Zealand Kannada Koota Ajay Ravi; Telangana Jagruti New Zealand President Jyothi Mallikarjun Reddy, Mana Andhra Telugu Association New Zealand General Secretary Ghouse Majeed and National Party Candidate in Manurewa Siva Kilari, among others graced the occasion.
The fundraiser aimed to raise funds for those impacted by the recent Auckland flooding and Cyclone Gabrielle. It started at 10 am and saw a continuous flow of people from all walks of life. The attendees were seen enjoying the food and donating money towards the fundraiser.
NZTA President Suneel Kuncha said, “ We are so happy that we would raise approx. funds of $3880 through this event. We at New Zealand Telugu Association wholeheartedly thank everyone who came to support South Indian Food Festival. We are truly so overwhelmed that you joined us for this fundraiser. We are so glad the attendees enjoyed the food while contributing generous donations to this fundraising event. Everyone's kindness is highly appreciated.”
He added, “We appreciate the support and cooperation from Thiru Subramaniyar Aalayam Temple and its executive team for allowing us to use all its facilities, including the kitchen and groceries for free.
Kuncha also thanked the executive members and community members who donated food items for this good cause and acknowledged the services rendered by the volunteers.
Talking to Indian Weekender, the Thiru Subramaniyar Temple founding member Ilango Krishnamoorthy said, “We were overwhelmed by the community support for this event. We ran out of food around 2.00 pm and had to turn away many people.”
The attendees also appreciated the efforts of NZTA.
One of the attendees Prakash Rajarao, said, “Thank you, NZTA. I appreciate the hard work of your volunteers. The food was nice. God bless you all.”
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