Hindu Organizations, Temples, and Associations (HOTA) Forum NZ has unveiled an initiative that integrates cultural heritage with community development.This project involves the installation of a 40ft statue of Lord Hanuman alongside establishing a Youth Centre on the outskirts of Auckland.
The initiative aims to create a cultural and educational space that pays tribute to Lord Hanuman while addressing the need for a dedicated hub for youth. The project is scheduled to be launched at 2.00 pm on Thursday, 25 April 2024, at Bharatiya Mandir, Auckland, coinciding with the celebration of Hanuman Jayanti. As part of the launch, HOTA Forum NZ said that Prasad from the Shri Ram Mandir in Ayodhya will also be distributed to all participants.
Vinod Kumar, the National Coordinator of HOTA Forum NZ, highlighted the project's key objectives, which include promoting personal development, fostering leadership skills, and nurturing a strong sense of community among youth. The Youth Centre will offer career counselling, leadership development programmes, arts and cultural activities, sports and recreation facilities, and community outreach initiatives.
The proposed location for the Youth Centre will feature recreational areas, a multipurpose hall, and a dormitory capable of accommodating 80 youths for camping activities. The 40ft statue of Lord Hanuman will serve as a focal point atop the building.
Dr Guna Magesan, the President of the Hindu Council of New Zealand and International Coordinator of HOTA Forum, described the project as a tribute to "India's remarkable contributions to the world".
He said that the centre would be not only a source of cultural pride but also a tourist destination and an educational resource, inviting schools for day trips.
The project's timeline spans three to five years and will involve securing funding through a strategic combination of government grants, private donations, and partnerships. Individuals with expertise in project management, architecture, cultural studies, event planning, and community engagement are invited to join the diverse team dedicated to the success of this initiative.
This integrated project aims to benefit not only the youth it serves but also to contribute to the overall well-being and vibrancy of the community.
Established in 2010 during the third NZ National Hindu Conference organized by the Hindu Council of New Zealand, the HOTA Forum NZ promotes Hindu culture, traditions, and values in New Zealand. The forum aims to foster harmony and collaboration among Hindu organizations, temples, and associations, with a shared goal of enhancing community welfare
ISSUE
.jpg)