The Hindu Heritage Centre, located at 225 Malfroy Road, Rotorua, will serve as the vibrant backdrop for two significant events on Wednesday, 22 January 2025. This dual celebration aims to bring the community together in a spirit of sustainability, spirituality, and unity.
Community Garden and Sustainability Initiative Launch
Ms. Neeta Bhushan, High Commissioner of India to New Zealand, and Rotorua Mayor Tania Tapsell will officially inaugurate a new Community Garden and Sustainability Initiative. The project, made possible by a $12,000 grant from the Rotorua Lakes Council’s Community Matching Fund, includes the creation of five raised garden beds and a rainwater harvesting system.
This initiative is designed to promote sustainable gardening practices while fostering environmental awareness and community collaboration. The rainwater harvesting system will utilise a tank to collect water from the community hall’s roof, supporting the cultivation of fresh produce and serving as an educational resource.
Dr Guna Magesan, President of the Hindu Council of New Zealand, expressed his gratitude for the council's support:
"This initiative will bring together volunteers from Hindu, ethnic, and wider Rotorua communities, creating a meaningful and sustainable space for everyone to enjoy."
Photo: Supplied
Dr Julia Anne, manager of the community garden, urged locals to participate in the upcoming working bee:
"This project embodies our shared commitment to sustainability and the spirit of collaboration."
Commemorating the Shri Ram Mandir Anniversary
Following the garden launch, the Hindu Heritage Centre will host a Community Devotional Gathering to celebrate the first anniversary of the Pran Pratishtha (consecration) of Shri Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. This sacred event, organised in collaboration with the Hindu Organisations, Temples, and Associations (HOTA) Forum NZ, underscores the temple's spiritual and cultural significance.
Reflecting on the importance of the Shri Ram Mandir, Dr Magesan, who represented New Zealand at its inauguration last year, stated:
"Being one of only 7,000 invitees among 1.4 billion Hindus worldwide was a profound honour. Marking this anniversary allows us to share that experience with our community."
Event Programme
- Community Garden Launch: 6:00 pm – 6:30 pm
- Community Prayer Gathering: 6:30 pm – 7:45 pm
- Lighting of the lamp
- Yoga session led by Nilamani Wright
- Collective chanting of “Shri Rām Jai Rām Jai Jai Rām” 108 times
- Bhajans, kirtans, and ārtis
- Speech by Her Excellency Ms. Neeta Bhushan
- Vote of thanks
- Lighting of Diyas: 7:45 pm – 8:00 pm
- Attendees are encouraged to bring earthen lamps for collective lighting.
Event Details
- Date: Wednesday, 22 January 2025
- Venue: Hindu Heritage Centre, 225 Malfroy Road, Rotorua
About HOTA Forum NZ
The HOTA Forum unites over 50 Hindu organisations, temples, and associations across New Zealand, promoting collaboration and the philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam – "The world is one family."
The Hindu Heritage Centre invites all community members to join this day of celebration and shared purpose. Dr Magesan concluded:
"Together, we can create lasting impacts for generations to come."
For Media Inquiries:
Prof Guna Magesan
President, Hindu Council of New Zealand
021 0345621
hindu.nz@gmail.com
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