Auckland’s Malayali community gathered in high spirits to celebrate Vishu with zeal and enthusiasm on April 23, 2023.
The festival marks the traditional New Year as per the Malaylam calendar. It is similar to Punjab’s Baisakhi, Assam’s Bihu and Bengal’s Poila Boisakh, all marking the beginning of the harvest season.
The event was put together by the Organization of Hindu Malayalis New Zealand (OHM NZ), one of the strong emerging community organisations of Malayali Hindus in Aotearoa. The event was held at Sai Sansthan Shirdi Sai Baba Mandir in Onehunga.
The celebration began with the traditional Vishukkani, an arrangement of flowers, fruits, vegetables and a traditional lamp, a symbolic harbinger of prosperity. This was followed by various cultural programmes, including classical dances, songs and skits, showcasing the rich art and cultural heritage of the Malayali community.
The event was attended by a diverse crowd of more than 500 people, including community leaders, dignitaries and families, who enjoyed a sumptuous 22-course traditional Malayali vegetarian feast called Sadya.
The meal was prepared and served by volunteers from the community who worked tirelessly for days to ensure the dishes were perfectly prepared. Guests also had the opportunity to view an exhibition of artwork created by children from the community.
Hon Consul of India in Auckland Bhav Dhillon graced the event as a special guest, expressing his admiration for the community's efforts in organising such a grand celebration. He commended the community for preserving and promoting the richness of Kerala's culture and traditions in a foreign land.
Other dignitaries who attended the event included former parliamentarian Kanwaljit Singh Bakshi, Auckland Malayali Samajam President Blessan M Jose and NZ Telugu Association President Suneel Kuncha.
Appreciating the delicious food, Kuncha said, “The food was amazing. It was great to be part of OHM NZ’s Vishu celebration, which brought together the community and provided a platform for cultural exchange and preserving traditional values.”
Sasi Nambissan, President of OHM NZ, said Vishu is a time for new beginnings and fresh starts. It is a festival that brings families together, strengthens social ties and celebrates the values of love, peace, and harmony, he said.
Nambissan said the event drew an overwhelming response. “The Sadya was ticketed, and we had numerous enquiries even after the ticket sale was closed and up until the eve of the celebrations. These traditional festivals would unite the community and remind us of our roots and culture. It is also an opportunity for the young Kiwi-Malayali generation to experience tradition and culture without losing its values,” he said.
The organisers expressed their gratitude to all the volunteers, sponsors and attendees who contributed to the event's success, and were looking forward to next year's celebrations with renewed enthusiasm.