Arya Samaj Christchurch, founded in 2006, is dedicated to raising awareness about the spiritual teachings of the Vedas and preserving the rich legacy of Indian heritage. This vibrant organisation strives to actively engage its members, particularly the younger generation, through various regular events.
Arya Samaj's faith is rooted in the values and practices derived from the Vedas, and has been making a profound impact globally. Founded in 1875 with the purpose of reviving the teachings of the Vedas and liberating Hindu dharma from superstitious beliefs, Arya Samaj aims to spread the true teachings of the Vedas, fostering peace within human beings, promoting respect for the environment and harmony among followers of different religions. The term ‘Veda’ itself signifies knowledge, as the Vedas serve as the ultimate source of wisdom and enlightenment.
Arya Samaj Christchurch carries on this tradition by providing a platform where its members can learn and share the principles and teachings of the Vedas, as well as their cultural heritage.
Under the umbrella of Arya Samaj Pratinidhi Sabha New Zealand Inc., Arya Samaj Christchurch has been active since its inception in 2006. Guided by the principles of the Arya Samaj movement, this dynamic organisation conducts regular community prayers and various events to engage its members.
Arya Samaj Christchurch holds a monthly ‘havan’ on Saturday evenings, followed by bhajans and discussions on Vedic mantras and topics. These gatherings, known as satsangs, take place in the homes of members and are attended by up to 40 people.
Janaki Kandula, the spokesperson for the Samaj, highlighted the various activities that take place during these satsangs. "We begin with a havan, followed by presentations from our youth members on their learnings about the Vedas or mantras," Kandula explained.
She also mentioned the regular classes she conducts for young Samaj members, teaching them about the Vedas, the importance of havan and the power of mantras. Kandula’s classes, which have attracted more than 30 students, use a mix of Hindi and English to explain the topics in a simple way that appeals to the younger generation.
Even during the challenging times of the Covid-19 pandemic, Kandula organised online workshops, allowing students to learn about the significance of havan and proper havan procedures.
The satsangs also involve discussions on Vedic topics, providing an interactive and enlightening experience for all participants. The satsangs conclude with a community lunch or dinner prepared by members.
Meditation and yoga hold a special place in the activities of Arya Samaj Christchurch. Recognising their importance for spiritual growth, the organisation emphasises these practices alongside its regular events.
In addition to the monthly satsangs, Arya Samaj Christchurch also hosts four big events during the year. The first, held in January, is the Gayatri Havan, where an akhand Gayatri path and havan are performed for four hours non-stop, followed by a community lunch.
In April, the Samaj commemorates Arya Samaj Sthapana Divas, celebrating the founding of Arya Samaj by Maharshi Dayanand Saraswati on April 10, 1875. Nearly 100 people attend this event, participating in havans and reciting mantras.
In June, International Yoga Day is celebrated, and in October, Ved Prachar raises awareness about the importance of Vedas, havan and the principles of Arya Samaj.
President of Arya Samaj Christchurch Divakar Kandula says, “All the events and satsangs are organised and funded solely by the members of Arya Samaj Christchurch, without seeking any external monetary help or sponsorship.”
“Being conscious about the environment, we do not use plastic or even paper plates or cups. We only use steel and reusable plates and cutleries which can be washed and reused,” Kandula adds.
Arya Samaj Christchurch also plans to hold a series of monthly workshops on Vedic studies. These workshops aim to benefit young Indian-origin members and the wider community interested in the Indian tradition of Vedas, expanding the knowledge and understanding of these ancient scriptures.
Kandula concludes, “We take pride in continuing to carry the Sanskrit invocation ‘Tamso ma Jyotirgamya’ – from the darkness, lead us to the light.”