The Hindu Elders Foundation (HEF) celebrated its 17th Annual Day on July 7, 2024, at Balmoral Community Hall in Sandringham. The event saw the presence of numerous community leaders, including Judge Ajit Swaran Singh, Paramjit Parmar MP, Jessica Phaung, Harnam Singh Golian, Kanwaljit Singh Bakshi, Mahesh Bindra, Siva Kilari, Rahul Chopra, Navtej Randhawa, Narinder Bhana, Roshan Nauhria, Jeet Suchdev, Hemant Parashar, Kalburgi Lingappa, Vishav Sharma, Harjit Walia, Roopa Sachdev, and Jyoti Parashar. The clear and pleasant weather seemed to bless the occasion, adding to the vibrant atmosphere.
Under the leadership of Satya Prakash Pahuja, President of HEF, and his team of dedicated volunteers, the event was a resounding success. HEF was established on July 7, 2007, at the Hindu Heritage Centre in Gadsby Road, Mangere. This visionary centre was created as a hub for the Hindu community in New Zealand. The foundation began its journey under the direct guidance of trustees Pravin Patel, Dinesh Pahuja, and Hemant Parashar, who remain associated with HEF.
Chelliah Shanmugaratnam, the first president, played a pivotal role in HEF’s formation. Sadly, he passed away shortly after its inception. Since then, Satya Prakash Pahuja has been leading the organization. Over the past 17 years, HEF has served senior citizens of diverse backgrounds and ethnicities. The foundation’s annual calendar includes celebrations of Matariki, Shri Ram Navami, Shri Guru Nanak Prakash Utsav, Baisakhi, and Christmas.
Five years ago, under the leadership of the late Jyoti Swaroop Dua, HEF began celebrating Diwali uniquely by visiting rest homes across Auckland. They distribute presents and organize entertainment programs for residents who cannot leave due to age and health reasons. After Jyoti Dua’s sudden demise, Chander Prakash Satija has continued this noble project.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, when morale was low, HEF successfully organized a mega event, AUCKLAND FAAG MAHOTSAV-21, on August 8. This event, held in association with the Indian High Commission at Mahatma Gandhi Centre, Auckland, involved collaboration with over 29 community organizations. In its early years, on October 3, 2009, HEF organized a National Elders Conference themed “OLD IS GOLD” in partnership with the Hindu Council of New Zealand, attracting many senior citizen organizations and government agencies.
Recently, during the Auckland floods, HEF members, in collaboration with Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh, helped clean and distribute food in the affected areas. Many dignitaries spoke at the 17th Annual Day, appreciating the work HEF has done over the years.
The celebration featured a musical entertainment program by various ethnic groups, organized and compiled by Rashmi Sharma. The performances captivated the audience, who were welcomed with a tilak on their forehead upon arrival. Yatish Wadhera, HEF secretary, delivered a vote of thanks, followed by a delicious vegetarian lunch for all attendees.
The day was filled with joy and acknowledgment of the hard work and dedication of the Hindu Elders Foundation. The sun shining down seemed to smile upon and bless the efforts of HEF, making the 17th Annual Day a memorable and cherished event.Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!
The Hindu Elders Foundation continues to be a pillar of support and celebration for the Hindu community in New Zealand, fostering unity, culture, and service throughout its journey. -TIN Bureau