Navratri celebrations at Auckland’s Mahatma Gandhi Centre

For nine nights each year, the Mahatma Gandhi Centre in Auckland becomes a vibrant gathering place for people celebrating Navratri. With live musicians from India, traditional Garba, delicious food and a welcoming family atmosphere, it has become a go-to destination for Navratri celebrations in New Zealand.

Organised by the Auckland Indian Association, the celebration brings together people of all ages and backgrounds. Families, friends and first-time visitors join experienced Garba dancers on the floor, sharing in the music, colour and energy of one of India’s most cherished festivals.

The live musicians bring a distinctive spirit to the evenings, filling the Centre with familiar devotional and Garba favourites. Their performances invite everyone to take part, whether they arrive ready to dance or simply want to enjoy the music and atmosphere.

For many attendees, Navratri is also a time for devotion and reflection. The Maa Amba Sthapna gives religious believers a place to offer prayers and honour the Goddess during the festival. It adds a meaningful spiritual dimension to the celebrations, alongside the music, dancing and community connection.

“Navratri at the Mahatma Gandhi Centre is a celebration of faith, culture and community. For nine nights, families come together to honour Maa Amba, enjoy live music by professional artists from India, delicious food freshly prepared by our volunteers, and share the joy oftraditional and modern Garba. We are proud that this much-loved tradition continues to bring people together and keep our culture alive in Auckland.” Puspa Lekinwala, Immediate Past President of the Auckland Indian Association told Indian Weekender.

Food is another much-loved part of the experience. Delicious dishes are available for attendees to enjoy, making it easy for families and groups to spend the evening together and share in the festive spirit.

The Mahatma Gandhi Centre’s family-friendly environment helps make the celebration welcoming for everyone, from children and young people to seniors. Newcomers are encouraged to join in at their own pace, while regular attendees return each year to reconnect with friends and celebrate together.

“Navratri at the Mahatma Gandhi Centre brings the spirit of the festival to life. The live music, traditional Garba, delicious food and Maa Amba Sthapna create an experience that is both joyful and meaningful. It is wonderful to see families and people of all ages come together to celebrate, and we warmly welcome everyone to join us.” Narendra Bhana, Chairman, Entertainment Committee, Auckland Indian Association Inc.

For more than three decades, Navratri at the Mahatma Gandhi Centre has helped keep Indian culture and tradition thriving in Auckland. It is more than a place to dance; it is where devotion, music, food and community come together.

For anyone looking to experience the joy of Navratri in New Zealand, the Mahatma Gandhi Centre is the place to be.