Papatoetoe's Cosmopolitan Club became a vibrant epicentre of cultural rejoicing as the venue recently played host to the ‘ACTIVE INDIA’ event. The spirited community gathering on August 12 paid homage to India's 77th Independence Day.
Organised by New Zealand Chandigarh Club Inc. and supported by Otara-Papatoetoe Local Board (OPLB) as well as Auckland Council , the free event kicked off with an air of reverence as the ceremonial lighting of the auspicious diya illuminated the path of celebration. Attendees rose from their seats in unison, offering a heartfelt salute to India's journey to independence.
Among the distinguished guests in the gathering of more than 300 community members were Head of Chancery at the Indian High Commission Mukesh Ghiya, Honorary Consul of India in Auckland Bhav Dhillon, Honorary Consulate of Georgia In New Zealand Dr Jagjit Singh; Chair of OPLB and former MP Ross Robertson, and Ethnic Responsive Manager of NZ Police Jessica Phuang.
The repertoire included a special guest performance of laughter yoga by Botany Ethnic Association, folk dances representing Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Haryana, Punjab, Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh, and Assam; Bharatnatyam, a skit prepared by senior citizens and patriotic songs.
One of the event's most memorable moments was when Darshan K Bedi, the 95-year-old wife of freedom fighter late Dr. KSP Bedi, was honoured.
Talking to The Indian Weekender, Reeta Arora, President of New Zealand Chandigarh Club Inc., said, "The event was mainly dedicated to salute and pay tribute to our nation on Indian Independence Day. Our event showcased the diversity of Indian culture by organising different state traditional/cultural performances.
“Papatoetoe is an area where a huge Indian community lives, and this event gave them a great feeling of their valuable culture.
“Some of Papatoetoe's residents live in a pocket of isolation, some are unfamiliar with other cultures. Some groups are insular and do not mix with others. This event brought them together on common ground."
She maintained that such events are essential to stay connected with the community and culture and to remember the golden heritage of our country, as they are an excellent platform for the new generation to learn and share our culture.
Calling it an 'amazing community event', one of the guests, Anita Keestra, said, "Huge thanks to Reeta Arora and her team from the New Zealand Chandigarh Club for organising another amazing community event. Thoroughly enjoyable”
Messages of goodwill from prominent personalities, including Neeta Bhushan, High Commissioner of India in New Zealand, as well as Bollywood stars like Bhumi Pednekar, Prince Kanwaljit, and Mukesh Rishi, added a touch of glamour and significance to the event.
Attendees revelled in the delectable snacks and lunch, showering accolades upon the organisers for their dedication.
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