The Auckland Tamil Association recently hosted a vibrant Tamil New Year celebration, Tamil Puthandu, which drew a crowd of over 400 enthusiastic attendees. Held at the Freemans Bay Community Centre in Auckland on April 20th, the event was a lively and colourful showcase of Tamil culture and community spirit.
The evening was filled with a variety of cultural performances, including traditional dances, musical performances, and theatrical presentations. These performances not only entertained the audience but also highlighted the rich cultural heritage and traditions of Tamil Nadu, captivating the hearts of all those present.
A special highlight of the celebration was the unveiling of the Auckland Tamil Association's yearbook, which documented the association's activities and achievements over the past year. This moment was a testament to the hard work and dedication of the association's members and a source of pride for the Tamil community in Auckland.
During the event, two individuals were honoured for their outstanding contributions. SMT Anuradha Ramkumar was recognised for receiving the prestigious Order Award from the NZ Government, acknowledging her significant achievements and contributions to the community. Additionally, Usha Shyam was applauded for her global influence in promoting the art of henna tattoos, showcasing the talent and creativity of the Tamil community.
To ensure that all guests, including children, were entertained, a special performance was organised specifically for the younger attendees. This thoughtful gesture allowed parents to relax and enjoy the festivities, knowing that their children were also having a great time.
The celebration culminated in a sumptuous dinner spread, featuring a variety of traditional Tamil dishes as well as other culinary delights. This provided the perfect opportunity for guests to mingle, socialise, and enjoy the camaraderie of the Tamil community.
The event was graced by esteemed guests, including Hon. Melissa Lee, Minister of Ethnic Communities, Media & Communication, and Economic Development, who commended the Auckland Tamil Association for their efforts in promoting and preserving Tamil culture in New Zealand. Other parliament members, consulate representatives, and community leaders were also in attendance, showing their support for the Tamil community.
The Auckland Tamil Association's Tamil Puthandu celebration was a resounding success, bringing together the Tamil community and its supporters to celebrate, rejoice, and strengthen their bonds of friendship and unity. The association looks forward to hosting more such events in the future, continuing its mission to promote and preserve Tamil culture in Auckland