The Hindu Heritage Centre in Rotorua hosted a vibrant and joyous Makar Sankranti celebration on Sunday, January 12, 2025, drawing a spirited crowd of children, parents, volunteers, and wider community members. The event was a lively demonstration of Hindu culture and tradition, with participants from the Rotorua Hindi School, Hindu Scripture Classes, Yoga and Meditation groups, and other locals keen on embracing the rich cultural heritage of Hinduism.
Makar Sankranti, a significant Hindu festival celebrated on January 14 each year according to the solar calendar, has deep roots in Hindu Dharma, dating back over 5,000 years. Known by various regional names such as Uttarayana, Lohri, Bihu, Pongal, and Bhogi, the festival symbolises unity in diversity and highlights the enduring cultural richness of Hindu traditions.
“It’s heartwarming to see children and youth actively engaging in these timeless traditions,” said Dr. Guna Magesan, President of the Hindu Council of New Zealand. “Through events like this, we ensure that our cultural roots are not only preserved but also embraced by the next generation with enthusiasm.”
Photo: Supplied
The day’s festivities began with the ceremonial lighting of a lamp, accompanied by children reciting Vedic mantras and shlokas. The atmosphere was filled with both reverence and joy. The celebration continued with a kite-making workshop, led by dedicated volunteer Urvi Dhruv Rao, who shared her expertise with the students of the Rotorua Hindi School and Hindu Scripture Classes. Rao then guided participants through a fun-filled kite-flying session, sparking excitement among both children and adults.
“Kite flying brought back so many childhood memories,” said Meenakshi Gupta and Rekha Mehta, two adult participants. “It was wonderful to reconnect with this joyful tradition and share it with our children.”
Photo: Supplied
As part of the ongoing celebration, Rao conducted a special kite-making workshop on Tuesday, January 14, for the teachers at Tiaki Early Learning Centre. This initiative aimed to teach educators the craft of kite-making, equipping them to introduce the tradition to their students, thereby broadening the festival’s cultural impact.
“Makar Sankranti is more than a festival; it’s a celebration of life, togetherness, and shared heritage,” said Urvi Dhruv Rao. “Seeing teachers take this tradition forward with their students is deeply fulfilling.”
Makar Sankranti has been a beloved tradition in Rotorua since the Hindu Council of New Zealand introduced it to the area in 2005. The Rotorua Hindi School, which opened on October 2, 2021, has taken the lead in organizing the celebrations, and since January 14, 2024, the school’s Hindi classes have been hosted at the Hindu Heritage Centre, aligning with the Centre’s mission to promote and preserve Hindu culture.
Photo: Supplied
The Hindu Heritage Centre remains dedicated to fostering a vibrant and inclusive community in Rotorua through the celebration and preservation of the diverse cultural and spiritual heritage of Hindu Dharma.
“Our vision is to create a space where people of all ages and backgrounds can come together, learn, and celebrate the rich tapestry of Hindu culture,” said Dr. Guna Magesan.
For media inquiries or interview requests, please contact:
Prof. Guna Magesan
President, Hindu Council of New Zealand
021 0345621
hindu.nz@gmail.com
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