A unique amalgamation of festivities beckons Kiwi-Indians this weekend as Hamilton will play host to an event marking the various New Year celebrations across India.
The Indian Cultural Society (Waikato) Inc is organising the Waikato Indian New Year Mela on April 15, 2023, which organisers hope will attract about 900 people.
The group’s President, Jujhar Randhawa, told The Indian Weekender, “The event will celebrate New Year festivals of Vaisakhi, Vishu, Puthandu, Ugadi, Bihu, Poila Baisakh, Maha Vishuba, Jur Sital and Aluth Avurudda that are marked in different states and regions of India. This will be the first of its kind event, which will showcase different parts of India. This is a significant event to bring different communities together on one platform, rather than celebrating so many different events separately. It will be a true representation of a united India.”
The mayor of Hamilton Paula Southgate, Head of the Chancery Mukesh Ghiya, local MPs, and community leaders from the Indian diaspora and wider communities will be among the attendees.
Randhawa is overwhelmed by the response from the community. He says, “The members of the Waikato Indian diaspora and the wider community are looking forward to seeing this great event. We have received tremendous support from other community groups, who have put their hand up to help us in this event. Moreover, our sponsors have been proactive, calling us to participate in this celebration.”
A lot is on offer for the guests, including live DJ, ethnic performances representing different cultures in India and a wide variety of food stalls serving dishes from across the country.
“This is our effort to reunite the various communities of India. Please come to support and enjoy this family event,” Randhawa says.
Hamilton resident Priyanka Sethi, who hails from Ludhiana in Punjab, says, "I am very excited to be a part of this event and will be attending it with my husband and kids aged seven and five years. It will be a great opportunity to catch a glimpse of India and its heritage in New Zealand. I believe it is imperative for our kids to be part of such celebrations and be connected to their motherland India and its rich culture."
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What: Waikato Indian New Year Mela 2023
When: Saturday, April 15, 2023
Timings: 5.30pm onwards
Where: Waikato Indian Association Hall, 82 Duke Street, Frankton, Hamilton 3204
Entry: Free
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