Christchurch’s Bangaliana Multicultural organisation hosted its sixth annual Saraswati Puja this Saturday, drawing families and community members from across the city to celebrate the goddess of knowledge, learning, music, and the arts. The event, designed to be vibrant, inclusive, and family-friendly, welcomed the wider public to join in a day of cultural performances, activities, and community bonding.
A key highlight of the festival was Pushpanjali, a devotional offering of flowers, in which many children participated. The
The celebration placed a strong emphasis on children and creativity, with a wide array of activities running throughout the day. Young attendees enjoyed face painting, balloon making, art and craft sessions, candyfloss treats, and bouncy castles, ensuring an engaging and memorable experience for families.
Food was another major draw, with a free vegetarian Indian lunch served to all attendees, reflecting the spirit of sharing and togetherness. Additional stalls offering a variety of snacks contributed to the festive atmosphere while showcasing the multicultural flavour of the event.
The cultural programme highlighted Christchurch’s diversity, with performances by talented local artists and children from various cultural backgrounds. Acts included Indian classical and contemporary dance, a graceful Chinese umbrella dance, and a
This year also saw the introduction of a “Back to School” initiative, aimed at supporting school-going children in the community. As part of the programme, four children attending the event were awarded stationery vouchers to help them prepare for the upcoming school year.
Community members, local leaders, and representatives attended the festival, strengthening connections and promoting cultural exchange. Through Saraswati Puja, Bangaliana Multicultural Christchurch continues to provide a welcoming space where traditions are shared, children are celebrated, and communities come together, making the festival both a religious observance and a meaningful multicultural gathering for the city.