The Hindu Council of New Zealand is excited to announce the introduction of Hindu Scripture classes in Rotorua, bringing the rich spiritual and cultural traditions of Hindu Dharma to the local community. These sessions, focusing on the teachings of Sanskrit shlokas and mantras, are held every Sunday at 11:00 am at the Hindu Heritage Centre in Rotorua, providing an hour of immersive learning for all participants.
The inaugural Hindu Scripture class took place on 21 July, coinciding with the Guru Purnima celebrations, and marked the beginning of a new era in spiritual education for the Rotorua community. The overwhelming response from parents and children has led to the successful establishment of these weekly classes, with attendance steadily increasing as word spreads.
Designed for participants of all backgrounds and levels of familiarity with Hindu traditions, these classes aim to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of the ancient wisdom embedded in Hindu scriptures. The initiative is open to everyone, reflecting the inclusive spirit of Hindu Dharma.
Ishwari Vaidya, a seasoned instructor with extensive knowledge of Hindu scriptures and a strong background in Sanskrit, leads the classes. Originally trained as an electrical engineer, Ishwari transitioned to early childhood education 15 years ago and teaches Maths and Science at John Paul College. Her lifelong connection with Sanskrit and the recitation of shlokas, nurtured by her mother, a Sanskrit scholar, has fueled her passion for sharing this knowledge.
"My mother, who taught Sanskrit to students from Year 5 to Year 12, made the recitation of Sanskrit shlokas and mantras a key part of my upbringing. It's a privilege to continue this tradition at the Hindu Heritage Centre and pass on this knowledge to younger generations," said Ishwari Vaidya, the Coordinator of the Hindu Scripture classes.
Photo: Supplied
In these sessions, Ishwari carefully guides participants through the correct pronunciation, meaning, and context of each shloka and mantra, offering insights into their relevance and application in daily life. The interactive format encourages active participation, fostering a dynamic and engaging learning environment.
Dr. Guna Magesan, President of the Hindu Council of New Zealand, shared his enthusiasm for the initiative, saying, "We have been planning to start Hindu Scripture classes for a long time. Now, with the establishment of the centre and a dedicated, trained volunteer, we can finally bring this vision to life. We are also looking forward to expanding these classes to other cities across New Zealand."
These scripture classes emphasise the importance of ancient chants in promoting mental peace, spiritual growth, and overall well-being. With a focus on inclusivity and cultural exchange, the classes are open to all—whether you are a practitioner of Hindu Dharma, a spiritual seeker, or simply curious about this ancient tradition. The sessions are designed to be accessible and engaging, ensuring that participants of all ages and backgrounds can benefit from this enriching experience.
Parents have expressed their appreciation for the classes.
"The children enjoyed learning about values and prayers," says Shalini Devi. Another parent called the initiative by the Hindu Heritage Centre helpful. "It will help young children connect with their Indian cultural roots and beliefs in New Zealand," said Varsha Kaki.
The Hindu Heritage Centre, a division of the Hindu Council of New Zealand, is dedicated to promoting cultural and spiritual education within the community. The Centre serves as a platform for learning, growth, and spiritual enrichment through a variety of initiatives and programs.
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