The High Commission of India in Wellington resonated with vibrant colours, rich traditions, and heartfelt nostalgia as the Devbhoomi Trust of New Zealand commemorated the 25th anniversary of the formation of Uttarakhand State with grandeur and profound cultural pride on 9 November.
The celebrations commenced at 5:30 p.m. with the soulful strains of “Bedu Pako Baro Masa,” Uttarakhand’s iconic folk song, presented in a distinctive rendition on the bagpipes by Thomas Gear, accompanied by Chintamani on the dhol and Darmyan Bhandari on the damau—traditional percussion instruments of the hill state. Their spirited performance created an evocative atmosphere and welcomed guests in true Uttarakhandi style.
An exhibition held from 5:30 to 6:00 p.m. in the Business Room of the High Commission showcased an impressive collection of herbal products, traditional attire, handicrafts, and cultural souvenirs from Uttarakhand. The display offered insights into the state’s rich heritage, geographical diversity, defence legacy, cultural traditions, and sacred Hindu pilgrimage sites, notably Badrinath and Kedarnath.
One of the most moving highlights of the exhibition was the display of a First World War Victory Medal belonging to Gamal Singh Bisht, grandfather of Jyot Singh Bisht, who served with distinction in France in 1914 as part of the 2/39 Royal Garhwal Rifles. The medal stirred deep admiration and pride among attendees, honouring Uttarakhand’s longstanding legacy of valour and service.
Approximately 220 guests representing a wide cross-section of Indian organisations—including Vitasta, Gayatri Parivar, ACT Party, Jews Council, Maharashtra Association, Indian Cultural Society, Hindu Foundation, Haryana Association, HSS, and Shri Sanatan Dharam Wellington Ramayan Mandali—attended the event. The gathering was warmly welcomed by Mr Girish Sajwan, Trustee of the Devbhoomi Trust.
Virtual messages of congratulations and goodwill were delivered by Mr Hemant Dwivedi, Chairperson of the Badri Kedar Samiti, Uttarakhand, and Hon. Satpal Maharaj, Tourism Minister of Uttarakhand. Both speakers commended the Devbhoomi Trust for its dedicated efforts in preserving and promoting Uttarakhand’s cultural heritage among the diasporas.
The programme was seamlessly conducted by Mr Manas Rawat, who also presented an engaging PowerPoint presentation highlighting the achievements of eminent personalities from Uttarakhand and the state’s notable contributions to civil administration and defence services.
The evening further recognised and honoured community leaders and students associated with the Devbhoomi Trust for their exemplary service to society and commitment to cultural preservation.
The celebration concluded with a traditional Uttarakhandi dinner, thoughtfully prepared by Lucky Dhaba Restaurant, featuring authentic delicacies including Uttarakhandi Rutana, prepared by Indu Rana ji, and Arsa, a classic hill-state sweet prepared by Meera Negi ji of Levin. The cuisine brought the comforting flavours of the hills to Wellington.
The event was generously supported by sponsors Star of India (Palmerston North), Star of India (Levin), Lucky Dhaba, Delight Green, The Flights Hub, and Mondo Travel.
The evening stood as a powerful testament to the unity, pride, and enduring spirit of the Uttarakhandi community in New Zealand—celebrating not only 25 years of Uttarakhand, but also the timeless bond between Devbhoomi and its people across oceans.
-TIN Bureau