Language is an integral aspect of culture, enabling people to communicate, connect, and build relationships within their communities. When it comes to Indian culture, the Hindi language is a crucial element, being one of the country's official languages. Earlier this week, Hindi language was celebrated with great enthusiasm and pride in Auckland, New Zealand, through an event named Hindi Utsav.
The event was hosted jointly by the High Commission of India (HCI), Wellington, and other representatives of Hindi organisations. Rohit Kumar Happy, the editor of Bharat-Darshan, the world's first online Hindi literary magazine since 1996, was the main coordinator for the event on behalf of HCI. The event, which took place at Mahatma Gandhi Centre, was attended by around 70 people, including many known faces of the Kiwi-Indian community.
The event was held to celebrate World Hindi Day (January 10) and International Mother Language Day (February 21). The chief guest at the event was H.E. Neeta Bhushan, the High Commissioner of India to New Zealand. Well-known Hindi radio figure in NZ and Fiji, Pt Nitya Nand Sundar; Poet-author Preeta Vyas, and Roopa Sachdev, CEO of Roopa Aur Aap Charitable Trust, were the emcees at the event.
The event had many highlights, including soulful poetry recitation by some attendees and a mesmerizing musical performance by Manjit Singh and Daljit Kaur of Rhythm School of Indian Music, which was appreciated by all. The event also featured an exhibition of 'Hindi Ki Vikas Yatra,' showcasing the Hindi language's journey in New Zealand since 1930.
During her speech, Neeta Bhushan expressed her love for Hindi poetry and music and appreciated the Kiwi Indian community's efforts to keep Indian culture alive in New Zealand, especially among the younger generation. She recited a few lines from a famous poem, Main Tujhe Phir Milungi, by legendary writer Amrita Pritam. The event concluded with Prof. Madhur from Sargam School of Indian Music performing the national anthem.
Rohit Kumar Happy, the event's coordinator, expressed his satisfaction with the turnout at the Hindi Utsav. He appreciated the outstanding performances by the Rhythm School of Indian Music, Sargam School of Indian Music, and some Hindi school children from Bhartiya Mandir and Bhartiya Samaj. He expressed his gratitude to everyone who helped and participated in making the event a success.
In conclusion, language plays a crucial role in preserving culture and promoting unity within communities. The Hindi Utsav event in Auckland celebrated the Hindi language and its journey in New Zealand, showcasing its rich history and cultural significance. The event was a testament to the strong bond between the Kiwi-Indian community and the Hindi language, reflecting the community's commitment to preserving their cultural heritage in a foreign land.