Auckland came alive with vibrant colours and pulsating rhythms on Saturday, September 6, 2025, as the Bihar Jharkhand Association of New Zealand (BJANZ) hosted its spectacular “Garba Nights” event. Held at the Balmoral Community Centre at 258 Balmoral Road, the celebration brought together people from all walks of life to experience the rich traditions of Garba, a traditional folk dance from the Indian states of Gujarat and Rajasthan, which is celebrated across India.
The evening was a resounding success, filled with joyous dancing, beautiful attire, and a festive spirit that permeated the air. Attendees, dressed in traditional Chaniya cholis for women and kurta pyjamas for men, twirled and clapped in unison to the infectious beats of Garba music. The atmosphere was electrifying, with participants young and old moving to the rhythm with great enthusiasm.
A Community United
The event wasn’t just a dance party; it was a cultural experience that fostered a sense of community. The festival partners— Bank of India, Kaumātua Energy, National Finance, Travelshop, RANZ Financial Services and Unique Beauty & Hair also played a crucial role in making the event possible. The delicious dinner served added to the festive mood, offering a taste of authentic Indian cuisine.
The event also featured stalls from local entrepreneurs, adding a unique entrepreneurial flair to the festivities. Guests were treated to “Taste of Bihar,” a culinary venture by Shweta Jaiswal, which offered a delectable array of authentic Bihari delicacies that were a huge hit with the crowd. “Shining GemZ,” an imitation jewellery stall, captivated attendees with its stunning collection of traditional and contemporary pieces. Meanwhile, Ronnie Singh’s booth offered a range of popular beverages for both kids and adults, providing a refreshing break from the spirited dancing.
Speaking about the event, BJANZ President Amit Shankar Verma expressed his delight at the turnout and the community’s response. “It was an evening of rhythm, tradition, and celebration,” he said. “We wanted to light up the night with Garba beats and a festive spirit, and seeing everyone come together with such energy and enthusiasm was truly heartwarming.”
Shalini Alok remarked, “The energy tonight was incredible. It’s truly special to see so many people embrace our traditions and celebrate together. This event strengthens our community bonds.”
Prakash Jha added, “Garba Nights is more than just a dance; it’s a way to connect with our roots and share our culture with the wider New Zealand community. The smiles on everyone’s faces are the best reward.”
Rani Singh shared her thoughts: “Events like Garba Nights are vital for our diaspora. They provide a platform for cultural exchange and ensure that our traditions continue to thrive for future generations.”
President Verma extended his gratitude to the core organizing team Rani Singh, Shalini Alok, Kiran Singh, and Indu Ajitesh, Nishant Lal, Reetu Kumari, Preeti Maheshwari, Geeta and all the volunteers for their hard work and dedication.
The success of “Garba Nights” solidifies BJANZ’s commitment to promoting and preserving Indian culture in New Zealand. The event serves as a testament to the power of tradition in uniting communities and creating memorable experiences.
-TIN Bureau