The BAPS Swaminarayan Temple in Avondale, Auckland observed the UN’s International Women’s Day with an inspiring program held on 5 April 2025. The celebration of International Women’s Day in this platform goes leaps and bounds towards inspiring one another and empowering future generations of women.
International Women’s Day (IWD), which falls annually on 8 March, was ratified by the United Nations in 1977 to honor the significant contributions of women throughout the course of history. The celebrations titled ‘Yeh Mandir Mera’ meaning ‘This is “My Temple’ focused on how everyone gains a benefit from living a principled lifestyle and how community hubs, such as a temple, can further such benefits. The program also acknowledged the key role which women play in creating flourishing communities.
Over 300 women of all ages and diverse backgrounds came together at BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Auckland to celebrate the UN’s IWD. In a display of unity and proficiency, the entire program was planned, executed and attended by women only. As such it was a beautiful demonstration of the profound capabilities of women and girls of all ages.
Throughout the two-hour program, there were numerous stage performances including various skits, speeches, dances and singing performances. All these performances were conducted by girls and women from the age of 6 years-old and upwards. During the program, awareness was raised for issues which uniquely affect women. Ms. Ritu Choudhary, a community engagement and health promotion advisor for Health NZ addressed the audience of women to discuss breast cancer screening. Ms.Choudhary allowed the audience to gain the awareness of understanding the necessity of breast cancer screening in a manner which is comfortable for the audience present.
The inspiring theme ‘Yeh Mandir Mera’ was thoughtfully explored through uplifting video presentations, inspiring addresses and an insightful panel discussion. The panelists included Nancy Lu (National Party MP), Priti Ambani (TCS, country head), and Jyoti Parashar KSM (Trustee and elder abuse response social worker at Disha NZ). Each of the panelists shared their personal experiences of how a community hub, such as a temple or other community provides such vast benefits, and how women play a foundational role in creating such community feeling. The overarching point was recognition of and appreciation for the contributions which women play towards creating such beneficial environments. It was particularly illuminating to hear from these women in their various professional and personal backgrounds and with their variety of perspectives and experiences.
Addressing the audience, MP Nancy Lu said “There is so much that we can all celebrate as women, and I encourage you all to do that. Because, with the power of celebrating together, recognize that the little achievements in our daily life add up to a lot… and you will see the power of change.” She further emphasized that “We contribute so much, we should be recognized, and we should be celebrating this. This is why I am very, very proud to be here celebrating with you International Women’s Day.”
This IWD celebration recognized and demonstrated the contributions which women make towards our community and towards creating a thriving community. At the BAPS Swaminarayan Temple, there are regular classes and activities allowing women and girls to reach proficiency in various skills, ranging from public speaking, traditional Indian dance and music to scholarship in Sanskrit and our Hindu scriptures. BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha’s celebration of IWD represents its ongoing commitment to women and matters of importance to women, as inspired and guided by BAPS’s spiritual leader, His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj. All attendees left the program with more support and appreciation for women’s contributions in their hearts and minds. -TIN Bureau