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The Uttar Pradesh Association NZ Inc (UPANZ) brought a spectacular burst of colour, culture, and community spirit to Auckland with its grand Rang Utsav celebration of Holi Milan on March 15, 2026. Hosted at the Tennis Hall on Foch Avenue in Mt. Roskill, the event drew a large gathering of UPites and families, all united by a shared enthusiasm to celebrate the festival of colours in its most authentic form.
The atmosphere was charged with the lively spirit of Mathura and Vrindavan, as attendees immersed themselves in traditional festivities. One of the standout features of the event was the seamless organisation of the iconic Lath Maar Holi, a cherished tradition from eastern Uttar Pradesh associated with the divine legends of Lord Krishna and Radha. This unique cultural highlight added authenticity and excitement, bringing a piece of India’s rich heritage to life in New Zealand.
The celebration was filled with vibrant Holi songs, energetic music, and a variety of fun-filled activities that kept participants engaged throughout. Under the leadership of President Rakesh Maihar, and with the dedicated efforts of the organising team led by General Secretary Rahul Pandey and Joint Secretary Neisha Mishra, alongside Kashika Singh (Vice President) and Junoo Sharma, the event was carefully curated to reflect the true cultural essence of northern India. Their teamwork and attention to detail ensured that everything—from decorations to performances—captured the joyous spirit of Holi.
The highlight of the evening was the symbolic playing with colours on the grass, where clouds of organic hues yellow, green, and pink, filled the air, transforming the venue into a scene of pure joy and celebration. The cheerful greetings of “Happy Holi” echoed throughout, amplifying the festive mood.
Patron Anurag Rasela emphasized the importance of preserving traditions, cultural identity, and Sanatan values while living far from the homeland. For many attendees, Rang Utsav felt like a heartfelt homecoming, as music, dance, and rituals recreated the warmth and nostalgia of Uttar Pradesh.
The resounding success of Rang Utsav was made possible through the generous support of sponsors, along with the tireless efforts of the organising team and volunteers, leaving lasting memories for all who attended.-TIN Bureau