Meditation, Bhajans & Mahaprasad: Fiji-Indians Mark Mahashivratri In Rotorua

Rotorua’s Fiji Indian community gathered in devotion and cultural harmony to celebrate Maha Shivratri at the Hindu Heritage Centre on Wednesday, 26 February 2025. The event drew over 100 devotees and community members, fostering a spirit of unity through sacred rituals, spiritual music, and traditional prayers.

Maha Shivratri, a key festival in the Hindu calendar, is dedicated to Bhagwan Shiva and represents spiritual awakening, self-discipline, and the triumph of good over evil. It is observed through fasting, meditation, and prayers, encouraging inner strength and devotion.

The evening commenced at 7:30 PM with a 15-minute meditation session led by Varsha Kaki, guiding attendees into a state of oneness. This was followed by bhajans (devotional songs), kirtan (spiritual chanting), and prayers, creating an uplifting and deeply spiritual atmosphere.

A Gathering of Faith and Unity

Event organiser Avinesh Gounder expressed his joy at seeing the community come together for the celebration.

“It has been a long time since so many different groups have united under one roof. We are truly grateful to the Hindu Heritage Centre for making this dream a reality,” he said.

Adding to the spiritual experience, yoga and meditation teachers were present to share their knowledge. A heartwarming moment of the evening was when women from South Africa, India, and Fiji spontaneously volunteered to perform bhajans and kirtans on stage. Among them was 7-year-old Tanvi Gounder, whose participation added a special touch to the celebrations.

                                                                                     Photo: Supplied

A Celebration of Tradition and Community Spirit

Narayan Reddy, a key community leader, reflected on the significance of the festival.

“Maha Shivratri is a time for spiritual reflection, inner strength, and community bonding. It was heartening to see so many people come together, thanks to the efforts of young leaders within our community,” he said.

The event was open to the wider community, welcoming people from all backgrounds to experience Hindu traditions and the essence of Shiva consciousness. To conclude the evening, attendees were served Mahaprasad (a community feast), with sweets sponsored by BailwalG, a well-known vegetarian restaurant in Rotorua.

                                                                                     Photo: Supplied

The Rotorua Fiji Indian community extended its gratitude to all participants, volunteers, and supporters who contributed to making the Maha Shivratri 2025 celebration a spiritually enriching occasion.

For media inquiries or interview requests, please contact: Prof Guna Magesan
President, Hindu Council of New Zealand
021 0345621
hindu.nz@gmail.com