Following the successful Ayodhya in Eden Park event in January 2024, the Hindu Organisations, Temples, and Associations (HOTA) Forum NZ announced the launch of a significant new initiative—the “Shri Hanuman Youth Centre.” This landmark project, inaugurated at the Bharatiya Mandir in Auckland, stems from widespread public demand for a dedicated space to support Hindu youth, women, and elders. The centre is poised to become a pivotal cultural and community hub, fostering empowerment and unity.

During the launch event, Shri Vinod Kumar, National Coordinator of HOTA Forum NZ, outlined the project’s key objectives, while Shri Vinay Karanam, HOTA Forum NZ Regional Coordinator (Hamilton), delivered a detailed presentation highlighting the project’s vision and scope. Their insights resonated deeply with the attendees, marking a significant milestone in aligning cultural heritage with modern community needs.

Next Steps: Securing Land and Community Investment

The Shri Hanuman Youth Centre has now entered a critical phase. A suitable piece of land on the outskirts of Auckland has been identified and reserved, but the project needs to secure sufficient funds by October 20th to finalise the purchase. This is where community support is essential.

Inspired by the fundraising model of India’s iconic Vivekananda Rock Memorial, the Hanuman Project seeks to engage the entire Hindu community in New Zealand. While the Rock Memorial campaign famously invited donations through “one-rupee folders,” the Hanuman Project offers an innovative investment opportunity. Well-wishers can contribute in increments of $5,000, with a promise of repayment over five years at an attractive interest rate of 10% per annum.

Shri Vinod Kumar explained, “We are not asking for donations but rather an investment opportunity. Due to the overwhelming support for this project, we will register a PDS (Product Disclosure Statement), which requires legal documentation. To proceed swiftly, we ask for your commitment within the next 10 days before we engage lawyers to draft these documents. We just need an expression of interest, and the funds will be required in November. Time is of the essence.”

Vision for the Shri Hanuman Youth Centre

The Shri Hanuman Youth Centre is envisioned as a dynamic hub dedicated to the educational, recreational, and social development of individuals aged 18 to 35. It will focus on nurturing personal growth, leadership skills, and community engagement. A grand 40-foot statue of Lord Hanuman will stand as a beacon of inspiration at the heart of the centre, symbolising strength, devotion, and unity.

The multistorey centre will include:

• Ground Floor: Seminar rooms, meeting spaces, and a multipurpose hall to support collaboration and synergy among youth and community organisations. These spaces will also be used by women and elders for their gatherings.
• First Floor: An exhibition area showcasing Indian heritage and cultural traditions.
• Roof Top: It will accommodate 40 ft statue, a vegetarian restaurant/café, a bookstore, a comprehensive library, and a function hall for cultural events.

Outdoor facilities will include dormitories accommodating up to 100 youths, sports arenas for traditional games, nature trails, camping areas, and community gardens. The centre aims to foster holistic well-being and environmental stewardship.

A Call to Empower the Future

This project represents a collective effort to empower youth while enriching the cultural fabric of the Hindu community. As an initiative of the HOTA Forum NZ, the Shri Hanuman Youth Centre embodies the unity, strength, and dynamism of Hindus in New Zealand.

The project has already sparked excitement and anticipation within the community. Here’s what some supporters had to say:

• Govardhan Mallela: “This is a fantastic initiative! It’s heartening to see a plan that offers an affordable investment option for the community. I’m proud to support this cause and wish the HOTA Forum and Hindu Council all the best.”
• Subha Deshpande: “The Hanuman Project is more than just a cultural initiative—it’s a spiritual movement that will foster community spirit and preserve our traditions. I can’t wait to see it become a hub for cultural exchange and spiritual growth.”
• Prasad Manakattil: “Inspired by Lord Hanuman’s divine spirit, this project promises to bring prosperity and happiness to all who engage with it. May it brighten the future of our community.”
• Amith Abkari: “The inauguration of the Hanuman statue will bring a sense of pride and joy, showcasing our cultural heritage. This project has the potential to unite people from diverse backgrounds in celebration of shared values.”
• Sowmya Basala: “The Hanuman statue symbolizes strength, unity, and belonging. This project will provide young people with a meaningful connection to their cultural roots while helping them navigate the modern world. It’s exciting to witness the beginning of such a transformative initiative.”

The Shri Hanuman Youth Centre is a testament to the Hindu community’s resilience, unity, and forward-thinking vision. Join us in making this dream a reality and be part of a legacy that will empower generations to come.

For more information or to pledge your support, please visit www.vanarsena.org.nz or contact:

National Coordinator

Hindu Organisations, Temples and Associations (HOTA) Forum NZ

info@hotaforumnz.org

+64 21 795 721