Kannadigas turned up in huge numbers at an event to celebrate the Kannada New Year, Ugadi, in Auckland last week.
The event was organised by New Zealand Kannada Koota (NZKK), the oldest Indian association in Auckland, on April 15, 2023. The group was founded in 1994 to connect Kannadigas.
The event at Mangere War Memorial Hall was attended by about 300 guests, including Hon Consul of India in Auckland Bhav Dhillon, New Zealand Telugu Association President Suneel Kuncha, Waitakere Indian Association President Sunil Kaushal, and National Party’s candidates for upcoming elections Mahesh Muralidhar, Navtej Randhawa and Siva Kilari.
Children infused energy and nostalgia by singing the national anthems of India and New Zealand, and followed it by a recital of ‘Jaya Bharata Jananiya Tanujate’ and ‘Jaya He Karnataka Maate’.
Guests enjoyed themselves as they witnessed energetic performances by Koota members of all ages, showcasing their talent in singing, dancing and performing art. The event also saw the NZKK honouring Bhav Dhillon for his service and support to Auckland's Indian diaspora.
Dhillon said, “Kannada Koota will celebrate 30 years in NZ next year. Kannada language and culture were aptly celebrated at the annual Ugadi function in Auckland. It was amazing to see the younger generation so connected with one of the world’s oldest ancient languages.”
Waitakere Indian Association President Sunil Kaushall appreciated NZKK's efforts and said, "The event was organised by an amazing team of volunteers led by Ajay Ravi. NZ Kannada Koota has served the Kannada community in NZ for 29 years. What an amazing journey to see the next generation of Kiwi-Indians rising as new leaders. Great to be a part of their celebrations.”
NZKK President Ajay Ravi told The Indian Weekender that celebrating Ugadi with everyone in Auckland was extraordinary for the Kannadigas in the city. He said Karnataka is an amalgamation of cultures united by a common language, and they wanted to ring in the new year with new and old members getting together to celebrate diversity and forge a bond that will hopefully last a lifetime.
He said, “Wow, can summarise the event. Everyone celebrated Ugadi with a bang after a long time. Positivity and energy across the hall were in full throttle. It was a great opportunity for new members of the Koota to mix and mingle with the existing members.”
Stressing on the importance of such events for the Kiwi-Indian diaspora, Ajay added, “Diversity and vibrant culture are the essence of India. Celebrating these events helps us to keep our tradition alive and enables the younger generation to appreciate and follow the tradition.”
One of the guests, Prakash Rajarao, shared his experience with The Indian Weekender: " For me, the programme’s highlight was a message from one of the little angels, 'Kiwi by birth, Kannadiga by blood'."
NZ Kannada Koota has lined up various activities for this year starting with “Kiwi Kannadigas has Talent”, Antyakshari + DJ, Sports day, Ganesha Chaturthi and Karnataka State formation day (Kannada Rajyothsava). Koota is inviting members of the wider Indian diaspora to attend upcoming events and experience the richness of Karnataka.