The Bihar Jharkhand Association of New Zealand (BJANZ) marked Bihar Diwas with great enthusiasm while also extending a warm and emotional farewell to one of Bihar’s distinguished daughters, the outgoing High Commissioner of India to New Zealand, Her Excellency Neeta Bhushan. The commemorative event was held on Saturday, 7 February, at the Ellen Melville Centre, Freyberg Place, in Auckland’s CBD, and brought together culture, celebration, and heartfelt gratitude under one roof.
The programme was graced by the presence of several prominent community and business leaders, with Her Excellency Neeta Bhushan attending as the chief guest. She was joined by the Consul General of India in Auckland, Dr Madan Mohan Sethi and his wife Swagatika, adding further significance to the occasion. Around 100 attendees gathered for the two-hour-long celebration, which was filled with vibrant energy, nostalgia, and a strong sense of community pride.
The event featured a rich cultural programme showcasing the heritage of Bihar and Jharkhand. Enthralling cultural performances and ethnic dance presentations captivated the audience, while a lively quiz segment encouraged active participation and tested attendees’ general knowledge in an engaging and interactive manner. The programme struck a perfect balance between entertainment and cultural education, keeping the audience thoroughly engaged throughout the afternoon.
A highlight of the event was a special interactive session with the outgoing High Commissioner. During this segment, H.E. Neeta Bhushan shared personal reflections from her life journey and diplomatic career, offering insights into her experiences across different countries. Her candid and heartfelt interaction resonated deeply with the audience, many of whom expressed admiration for her warmth, approachability, and dedication to the Indian diaspora in New Zealand.
Earlier, in her thanksgiving address, H.E. Neeta Bhushan spoke with visible emotion as she reflected on her time in New Zealand. She noted that while her diplomatic career had taken her to many countries, the love, affection, and respect she received in New Zealand held a special place in her heart. She expressed deep gratitude to the community, stating that the bonds she had formed here would remain cherished memories for years to come.
BJANZ President Amit Shankar Verma paid glowing tribute to the outgoing High Commissioner, commending her for making the High Commission of India more accessible and responsive during her tenure—an achievement widely appreciated by the Indian diaspora. He also expressed collective gratitude for her pivotal role in the establishment of the Consulate office in Auckland, which has significantly eased access to consular services for the community, eliminating the need to travel to Wellington for routine matters.
The event concluded on a warm and convivial note, with attendees sharing sumptuous meals and informal conversations. The event not only celebrated Bihar Diwas but also served as a meaningful farewell, honouring H.E. Neeta Bhushan’s remarkable contribution to strengthening ties between India and New Zealand and her lasting connection with the diaspora community.
-Yugal Parashar