Auckland’s Indian community marked a historic moment on 28 June 2025 with the launch of the Bihar Jharkhand Association of New Zealand Incorporated (BJANZ) at the Onehunga Community House. The event brought together families, community leaders, and supporters from across the region, uniting under a shared goal to celebrate and preserve their cultural heritage in Aotearoa.
“BJANZ is born out of a shared desire to celebrate our heritage and build a strong, supportive, and culturally vibrant community here in Aotearoa,” said President Amit Shankar Verma during his inaugural address. “We believe this platform will not only help preserve our traditions but also contribute meaningfully to New Zealand’s multicultural fabric.”
Established as a not-for-profit incorporated society, BJANZ aims to promote the rich cultural traditions, language, festivals, and values of the Indian states of Bihar and Jharkhand. It will serve as a platform to connect individuals and families from these regions while encouraging inter-cultural collaboration and community support within New Zealand’s diverse society.
Shalini Alok, Strategic Partner, emphasised the association’s inclusive vision, stating that BJANZ is “more than just a cultural initiative—it’s a space for connection, collaboration, and belonging. As we grow, our focus will be on building inclusive programs that reflect the spirit of both Bihar and Jharkhand, while embracing the diversity of New Zealand.”
Community supporter Nishita also welcomed the formation of BJANZ, expressing that for many, it represents “a long-awaited platform where our identity feels seen and celebrated. It's heartening to witness the unity and positivity this initiative is already bringing to the community.”
BJANZ will focus on community-based initiatives such as cultural festivals, youth and women empowerment, language preservation, and partnerships with other ethnic and community organisations. The association has invited individuals, families, and like-minded partners to join its mission.
The elected Executive Committee for the 2025–2027 term includes:
President – Amit Shankar Verma
Vice President – Reetu Kumari
Strategic Partner – Shalini Alok
General Secretary – Rani Singh
Treasurer –Nishant Lal
Cultural Secretary – Kiran Singh
Community Secretary – Indu Rajasekharan
Public Relations – Preeti Maheshwari
With its official launch, BJANZ begins its journey to strengthen community bonds and ensure the vibrant cultures of Bihar and Jharkhand continue to thrive in New Zealand.
ISSUE
Leave a Comment