The Hindu Heritage Centre in Rotorua hosted a spectacular celebration of Makar Sankranti, the vibrant and cherished Kite Festival, on Sunday, January 12, 2025. The event drew an enthusiastic crowd of children, parents, and volunteers from the Rotorua Hindi School, Hindu Scripture Classes, Yoga and Meditation groups, and members of the wider Rotorua community interested in Hindu culture.
Makar Sankranti, celebrated annually on January 14 according to the solar calendar, is one of the most ancient and auspicious festivals in Hindu Dharma, with origins dating back over 5,000 years. Known by various names across Bharat – such as Uttarayana, Lohri, Bihu, Pongal, and Bhogi – the festival embodies unity in diversity, celebrating the richness of Hindu heritage.
“It’s heartwarming to see children and youth actively engaging in these timeless traditions,” said Dr Guna Magesan, President of Hindu Council of New Zealand. “Through events like this, we ensure that our cultural roots are not only preserved but also embraced by the next generation with enthusiasm.”
The celebrations began with the lighting of the ceremonial lamp, accompanied by children reciting Vedic mantras and shlokas, filling the atmosphere with reverence and joy. This was followed by a kite-making workshop, led by dedicated volunteer Urvi Dhruv Rao, who shared her expertise with students from the Rotorua Hindi School and Hindu Scripture Classes. Ms. Rao’s guidance extended to the thrilling kite-flying activities that had children and adults alike brimming with excitement.
“Kite flying brought back so many childhood memories,” said Meenakshi Gupta and Rekha Mehta, adult participants. “It was wonderful to reconnect with this joyful tradition and share it with our children.”

In an extension of the festivities, on Tuesday, January 14, Ms. Rao conducted a special kite-making workshop for the teachers of Tiaki Early Learning Centre. This initiative aimed to equip educators with the skills to engage young learners in the art of kite making, further spreading the joy and cultural significance of Makar Sankranti.
“Makar Sankranti is more than a festival; it’s a celebration of life, togetherness, and shared heritage,” said Urvi Dhruv Rao. “Seeing teachers take this tradition forward with their students is deeply fulfilling.”

Since its introduction to Rotorua by the Hindu Council of New Zealand in 2005, Makar Sankranti has become a cherished tradition within the community. In recent years, the Rotorua Hindi School, inaugurated on October 2, 2021, has taken the lead in organising this celebration. As of January 14, 2024, the school’s Hindi classes are hosted at the Hindu Heritage Centre, further aligning the school’s activities with the Centre’s cultural mission.

The Hindu Heritage Centre remains committed to preserving, promoting, and celebrating the diverse cultural and spiritual heritage of Hindu Dharma, fostering a vibrant and inclusive community in Rotorua.
“Our vision is to create a space where people of all ages and backgrounds can come together, learn, and celebrate the rich tapestry of Hindu culture,” said Dr Guna Magesan.
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