The Rotorua Fiji Indian community came together in a spirit of devotion and cultural harmony to celebrate Maha Shivaratri at the Hindu Heritage Centre on Wednesday, 26 February 2025. The evening was marked by sacred rituals, spiritual music, and a strong sense of unity, drawing over 100 devotees and community members.
Maha Shivratri, one of the most significant festivals in the Hindu calendar, is dedicated to Bhagwan Shiva and symbolizes spiritual awakening, self-discipline, and the triumph of good over evil. It is traditionally observed with fasting, meditation, and prayers, fostering inner strength and devotion.
The event began at 7:30 PM with a 15-minute meditation session led by Varsha Kaki, guiding attendees into a state of oneness. This was followed by bhajans (devotional songs), kirtan (spiritual chanting), and traditional prayers, creating an uplifting and deeply spiritual atmosphere.
A Gathering of Faith and Unity
Speaking about the success of the event, Avinesh Gounder, one of the key organisers, expressed his joy at seeing the community come together:
“It has been a long time since so many different groups have united under one roof. We are truly grateful to the Hindu Heritage Centre for making this dream a reality.”
The celebration also welcomed yoga and meditation teachers, further enriching the spiritual experience. One of the most heartwarming moments of the night was when women from the audience representing South Africa, India and Fiji spontaneously volunteered to sing bhajans and kirtans on stage, including 7-year-old Tanvi Gounder.
A Celebration of Tradition and Community Spirit
Narayan Reddy, one of the key community leaders, emphasized the festival’s deeper meaning:
“Maha Shivratri is a time for spiritual reflection, inner strength, and community bonding. It was heartening to see so many people come together, thanks to the efforts of young leaders within our community.”
The event was open to the wider community, inviting people of all backgrounds to experience the richness of Hindu traditions and the essence of Shiva consciousness.
To conclude the evening, attendees were served a special Mahaprasad (community feast), fostering further fellowship. BailwalG, a popular vegetarian restaurant in Rotorua, sponsored sweets for the feast.
The Rotorua Fiji Indian community extends its heartfelt gratitude to all participants, volunteers, and supporters who made the Maha Shivratri 2025 celebration a memorable and spiritually uplifting occasion.
For media inquiries or interview requests, please contact:
Prof Guna Magesan
President, Hindu Council of New Zealand
021 0345621
hindu.nz@gmail.com
