The settled people of Indian origin in New Zealand, especially in Auckland may not miss their country of birth as much as they did say over a decade ago. This is because more and more Indian festivals have been organised and celebrated by the local Indian communities over the years. Among the Hindu festivals, Diwali was/will be celebrated in great scale in various parts of Auckland as follows :
- Manukau (south Auckland) on 3rd Oct 09
-Waitakere (west Auckland) on 4th Oct 09
-Auckland CBD on 10th & 11th Oct 09
-Kohimarama ((east Auckland) on 25th Oct 09
The word "Diwali" is the reform of the Sanskrit word "Deepavali" which is popularly known in Malaysia. Deepa means light and Avali means a row. It means a row of lights and indeed illumination forms its main attraction. It has great cultural, moral and religious significance to Hindu and is a symbol of all that is good and virtuous.
However, over the years as people of Indian origin settled in greater number, Diwali has transformed into more of a social event in Auckland and people of all walks of life look forward to this joyous occasion.
The Manukau libraries celebrated Diwali with Indian costume demonstrations, a jewellery workshop, sweet making, samosa demonstrations and tastings, henna painting and cultural performances and dancing.
In Waitakere, this festival was celebrated by the whole community irrespective of their background. The day offered variety entertainment items including a live band, Bollywood dances, cultural performances and drama. Patrons have the opportunity the 40 plus Indian merchandise stalls. There were also 18 food stalls providing various watering food from the Indian Continent. Other attractions included traditional hand painting "henna", trying out the Rangoli (Arts) displays, a spectacular indoor lazer light show and the grand finale of the night was a dazzling fireworks display.
On 10th and 11th October, the Viaduct Harbour in Auckland CBD was full of colour, tradition, authentic music, dance and aroma's of Indian food celebrating Dewali Festival of Lights 2009. Highlights of the festival included the colourful and lively Rajasthani puppets, Mystic Minstrels from Bengal, Bollywood dance competition and a grand finale fireworks display.It was organised by Auckland City Council in conjunction with Asia NZ and was attended by 100,000 people.
The New Zealand Governor General, Sir Anand Satyanand (an Indian) in his special message for Diwali said that in New Zealand, the festival not only symbolises the best traditions of Indian culture, but is also a timely reminder of the significant contribution made by the more than 100,000 people of Indian origin to the nation's society, culture and economy.
Happy Deepavali
Please click on the photos to enlarge.
Posted on 17th October, 2009 Saturday morning
