Auckland, June 28, 2025 — The Bhartiya Samaj Charitable Trust celebrated Matariki, the Māori New Year, with a vibrant cultural event at the Mt Roskill War Memorial Hall, bringing together more than 200 senior citizens and community members in a heartwarming display of unity, remembrance and fresh beginnings.
The event, held during the organisation’s regular senior citizens’ meeting, opened with a captivating performance by a local Matariki group. Through traditional storytelling and dance, the performers highlighted the cultural significance of Matariki, earning a warm reception from the audience and setting a rich and reflective tone for the day.
Photo: Supplied
A major highlight was the launch of Bhartiya Samaj’s new Musical Group. Young talents from the community impressed the crowd with a mix of instrumental and vocal performances, showcasing both their skill and dedication. Their mentors, Rushikesh Ahinave and Sudha Tata, were recognised with heartfelt appreciation for guiding and nurturing the budding performers.
Adding youthful energy to the programme, children from the Khote Sikke group took the stage with a spirited dance performance, followed by a soul-stirring vocal presentation by Vidya Teke, whose powerful voice left a lasting impression on the audience.
Photo: Supplied
The celebration was attended by several prominent dignitaries, including Dr Madan Mohan Sethi, Consul General of India, and his wife Swagatika Bhuyan; Member of Parliament for Mt Roskill, Carlos Chuang; Ethnic Responsiveness Manager at NZ Police, Sister Jessica Phuang; Bank of Baroda’s Auckland Managing Director, Sandeep Khetan; Mahatma Gandhi Charitable Trust’s Deputy Chair and former AIA President, Dhansukh Lal; former MP for Mt Roskill, Michael Wood; and Puketāpapa Local Board Chair Ella Kumar along with board member Fiona Lai.
Photo: Supplied
The event concluded with a community lunch, bringing everyone together over food and conversation in a spirit of warmth and connection.
Bhartiya Samaj extended its sincere thanks to the performers, volunteers, guests and supporters who contributed to the success of the event. The celebration reflected the organisation’s continued dedication to embracing cultural diversity, supporting youth, and strengthening intergenerational ties within the Kiwi-Indian community.