Disha NZ Charitable Trust organised Whau Disha Diwali in collaboration with the Whau Ethnic Collective, New Lynn Community Hub, and Hindu Elders Foundation on Sunday, 13th October 2024 at the New Lynn Community Centre. The venue was transformed into a vibrant hub of colours, music, and festivities as Auckland’s diverse communities came together to celebrate the Festival of Lights. The event was a resounding success, showcasing the rich cultural traditions of Diwali and the spirit of togetherness.
All the stallholders at the Whau Disha Diwali Mela were given their stalls completely free of charge, as the event was truly by the community for the community. This gesture was aimed at supporting small businesses, especially home-based businesses, ensuring they had a platform to thrive.
The day began with palpable excitement, as attendees were treated to a variety of cultural performances, market stalls, delicious food, and fun family activities. Performers dazzled the crowd with mesmerizing classical, Bollywood, Chinese performances, and kids’ dance performances, filling the hall with rhythmic beats and lively movements, bringing the essence of Diwali to life.
Special guests included Kay Thomas, Whau Local Board Chair, Sanjeev Kumar, the Indian Consul, and Jessica Phuang from NZ Police, who all graced the event with their presence, acknowledging the importance of cultural celebrations in fostering community cohesion. The official program included speeches from community leaders and dignitaries highlighting Diwali’s importance in promoting unity, peace, and cultural understanding.
There were a range of engaging activities including free henna, kids’ activities etc to kept children entertained and excited throughout the day. Families enjoyed browsing through market stalls offering Diwali decorations, Jewellery, clothes, handcrafted goods, and a variety of mouth-watering delicacies.
The Whau Disha Diwali Mela beautifully demonstrated how cultural celebrations can unite communities. Team Disha expressed their heartfelt thanks to all who contributed to the event’s success. “We are truly blessed to have the support of our community, volunteers, performers, and everyone who made this celebration so special,” they shared.
Disha NZ has been committed to promoting social inclusion, cultural awareness, and well-being in the community. With a focus on intergenerational programs, elder care, and women’s empowerment, the organization continues to be a pillar of support for South Asian and wider communities in Auckland.
Five passionate women – Priya Ramrakhiani, Anju Chadha, Abhi Jagwani, Neelu Ghai and Jyoti Parashar, Trustees of Disha NZ have worked tirelessly and achieved remarkable milestones in a short span of time. Their dedication has been instrumental in creating platforms for community engagement and cultural celebration. The Trust is committed to promoting social inclusion, cultural awareness, and well-being in the community. With a focus on intergenerational programs, elder care, and women’s empowerment, the organization continues to be a pillar of support for South Asian and wider communities in Auckland. Disha NZ is also honored to have Roshan Nauhria as their Patron, whose guidance and support have further strengthened their mission.
Disha NZ acknowledged the invaluable support from the Whau Local Board, Auckland Council, Whau Ethnic Collective, New Lynn Community Hub, Hindu Elders Foundation, and the broader community for their support in making this event a huge success.
All attendees left the event with smiles, festive spirits, and memories of a day well spent celebrating the triumph of light over darkness. Whau Disha Diwali Mela 2024 was not only a celebration of Diwali but also a celebration of community, connection, and culture.For more information about future events and the work of Disha NZ Charitable Trust, visit www.dishanz.org or email info@dishanz.org.