The Freemans Bay Community Centre came alive with energy and colour as over 350 attendees gathered for Deepavali Kondattam 2024, an event hosted by the Auckland Tamil Association (ATA). The celebration, held to honour the Festival of Lights, was a resounding success, showcasing the rich traditions, talents, and unity of the Tamil community in Auckland.
The evening began at 6 PM. A series of vibrant performances, heartfelt recognitions, and warm interactions set the tone for a memorable night. The event was not only a celebration of Deepavali but also a platform to acknowledge outstanding contributions from within the community.
Among the evening's highlights was the felicitation of individuals whose efforts have inspired and uplifted the Tamil community in Auckland. These achievers were recognised for their significant contributions, driving motivation and fostering a sense of pride among their peers. Adding to the celebrations, ATA also honoured the coordinators of various community initiatives such as yoga, badminton, and other weekly activities. These dedicated individuals were presented with awards, recognising their tireless efforts in organising activities that bring the community closer together.
The presence of distinguished dignitaries lent a special significance to the event. Guests of honour included MP Melissa Lee, Dr. Carlos Cheung, Michael Wood, Kanwaljit Singh Bakshi, Narendra Bhana, Dinesh Kadka, Jeet Sachdev, Govind Gohil, and Mahesh Muralidhar, along with presidents of various community associations. Each dignitary was presented with a gift basket as a token of appreciation for their support and encouragement.
Photo: Supplied
Cultural performances took centre stage, offering a feast for the senses. From soul-stirring singing to mesmerising dances, every act captivated the audience. A special performance by children from the Tamil school was particularly heartwarming, earning thunderous applause from the crowd. The enthusiastic response underscored the community’s deep appreciation for the performers’ talent and dedication.
The festivities concluded on a high note with a dazzling fireworks display, lighting up the night sky and filling hearts with joy. A sumptuous dinner followed, bringing people together in the true spirit of Deepavali. Feedback from attendees was overwhelmingly positive, with many praising the seamless organisation and the joy the event brought to everyone involved.
Photo: Supplied
ATA President, Vai Ravindran, reflected on the success of the celebration, saying, “This event was a grand success, and we even managed to sell out the tickets a few days before the event. What we like about events like these is the community spirit and bringing everyone together, giving a feel of being in India with their friends and family, whom our people dearly miss. This was also a great opportunity to find like-minded people and further fuel the kickoff of more community service activities.”
The evening was not just a celebration of Deepavali but a testament to the vibrant Tamil culture and the sense of togetherness that defines the Auckland Tamil community. With its blend of cultural richness and communal spirit, Deepavali Kondattam 2024 left an impression on all who attended.
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