The First Ever Diwali Organized by the Pakistani Community in New Zealand
Sindhi Sangat New Zealand (SSNZ) proudly hosted an extraordinary Diwali celebration on Sunday 10 November at the Western Springs Garden Community Hall, making history as the first Diwali event organized by the Pakistani community in New Zealand. Over 50 families (160+people) of both Pakistani and Indian origins attended the event. The evening was a vibrant celebration of light, culture, and interfaith harmony, featuring a rich blend of cultural performances, inspiring speeches, and heartfelt community connections.
The festivities began with a safety briefing, followed by a warm welcome note from an SSNZ official, officially inaugurating the event. Shortly after, attendees were captivated by an immersive video presentation, thoughtfully curated by Manoj Kumar, which set the tone for the evening’s celebrations.
A significant highlight of the event was the Diya lighting ceremony, led by Hon. Melissa Lee and Mr. Touqueer Khan. This symbolic act of lighting diyas celebrated the triumph of light over darkness, with inspiring speeches that emphasized the importance of community spirit and shared values during the festival of Diwali.
Throughout the evening, distinguished speakers from across New Zealand presented Ajrak shawls, a revered symbol of Sindhi heritage, as a gesture of honor. They also shared thoughtful insights into the cultural and spiritual significance of Diwali. Key speakers included:
• Hon. Melissa Lee, MP
• Mr. M. Tauqueer Khan
• Mr. Sunny Kaushal
• Mrs. New Zealand- Sindhiya Kirplani
The night came alive with vibrant performances, including captivating dances by the Dance Worx Group and other talented individuals. A special guitar performance by Deven Rathi and a delightful medley by women and children added to the celebratory atmosphere.
For the first time in New Zealand, Indian Sindhi Hindus and Pakistani Sindhis united in celebration, creating a truly historic and heartwarming moment. This unique gathering not only honored the festival of lights but also showcased the shared roots, cultural heritage, and deep historical bonds of the Sindhi community. It bridged geographical and cultural divides, fostering unity, mutual respect, and a shared legacy of Sindh.
Event organizers Manoj Rathi, Sanjai Kumar, and Rajesh expressed immense pride in showcasing the rich culture and heritage of Pakistan to New Zealand’s multicultural communities. They emphasized the importance of such events in promoting understanding and strengthening cultural ties across ethnic and religious boundaries.
The evening concluded with a delicious communal feast that fostered a sense of togetherness, followed by a spectacular fireworks display that lit up the night sky, leaving everyone in awe.
The Diwali celebration organized by SSNZ was a resounding success, inspiring all who attended and setting a remarkable precedent for future cultural events in New Zealand.
For more information or media inquiries, please contact:
Kattupoo-2013-Nov2013-sadhguru photos – for IKP Sadhguru mala-Maa Nagapusphika
Manoj Rathi manojrathi78@hotmail.com-TIN Bureau
