Guru Purnima & Inaugural Ethnic Market At Hindu Heritage Centre

The Hindu Heritage Centre Rotorua is set to host the inaugural Rotorua Ethnic Market, a vibrant and inclusive event that will bring together diverse ethnic communities to showcase and sell their unique products. Scheduled for Sunday, 21 July 2024, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM, this event promises to be a celebration of cultural diversity and community spirit.

In conjunction with the market, the Centre will also observe Guru Purnima, a Dharmic festival dedicated to honouring spiritual and academic teachers. The celebrations will commence from 10:00 AM to 10:30 AM, recognising selected teachers from schools in the vicinity of the Hindu Heritage Centre Rotorua. Traditionally celebrated in India, Nepal, and Bhutan by Hindus, Jains, and Buddhists, Guru Purnima acknowledges the significant role of 'Gurus' or teachers in one's life. This year marks the first public celebration of Guru Purnima in Rotorua, where disciples traditionally offer Puja or pay respect to their Gurus, who enlighten them with knowledge and teachings.

The Hindu Heritage Centre has partnered with the Rotorua Multicultural Council to launch the first Ethnic Market in Rotorua. This event will provide a platform for people from various backgrounds to come together and appreciate the rich cultural tapestry of the community. Vendors from different ethnic communities will display and sell a wide range of goods, including traditional crafts, clothing, jewellery, artwork, home decor, and culinary delights. Initially, the market will feature vendors from the Asian continent, with plans to include vendors from Africa and South America in the following months.

“I like the idea of this event. We no longer have the Sunday Farmers Market at Te Manawa in the city, and a Sunday market will not compete with the Saturday Kuirau Park Market. Having an indoor venue has many advantages, particularly in winter,” said Dr. Margriet Theron, President of the Rotorua Multicultural Council.

Event Highlights:

• Guru Purnima Celebrations: Selected teachers from the Hindu Heritage Centre neighbourhood will be honoured by their students, with traditional music, dance, and other cultural expressions marking the occasion.
• Diverse Vendors: Approximately 10 to 12 vendors representing various Asian cultures will offer a wide range of unique and high-quality products.
• Food Stalls: Two or three food stalls will serve authentic vegan/vegetarian ethnic cuisines, promising to tantalise your taste buds.

“The Rotorua Ethnic Market at the Hindu Heritage Centre is more than just a market; it’s a celebration of our community’s diversity and an opportunity for cultural exchange,” said Dr. Guna Magesan, Event Coordinator. “We invite everyone to join us for a day of shopping, entertainment, and community spirit.”

“Similarly, Guru Purnima is celebrated for the first time in public in Rotorua. Through this festival, we share our Dharmic tradition with New Zealanders,” he added.

The event is free and open to the public, making it an ideal family outing where attendees can explore different cultures, experience a new Dharmic tradition, support local artisans, and enjoy festive activities.

Join us at the Ethnic Market at the Hindu Heritage Centre to celebrate the beautiful diversity that enriches our community!

What is Hindu Heritage Centre Rotorua:

The Hindu Heritage Centre is committed to preserving, promoting, and celebrating Hindu heritage. It fosters cultural enrichment and spiritual nourishment within the community by hosting regular classes in Rangoli and Mehndi, yoga sessions, traditional music and dance classes, and organising educational programmes, workshops, and seminars. The Centre celebrates festivals, hosts events, showcases music and dance performances, and curates exhibitions highlighting the richness of Hindu culture. Through these efforts, the Centre aims to actively engage and enrich the vibrant community of Rotorua.

What is Rotorua Multicultural Council:

The Rotorua Multicultural Council (RMC) supports migrants and international students as they settle in Rotorua. RMC offers various opportunities for them to celebrate their cultures and fosters the local community’s understanding of the contributions these groups make to the Rotorua District. Additionally, RMC promotes relationships between Māori and migrants, helping migrants develop an understanding of Te Tiriti o Waitangi.

For more information about the Ethnic Market or to inquire about vendor opportunities, contact:

Dr. Guna Magesan
Event Coordinator, Rotorua Ethnic Market
Hindu Heritage Centre
Phone: 021 0345621
Email: hindu.nz@gmail.com