New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon surprised attendees at the Sikh Games in Auckland by trying his hand at making traditional Indian jalebis, drawing cheers from the crowd and praise across social media.
Luxon visited the annual event in Takanini alongside local MP Rima Nakhle, where they attended the opening ceremony, met athletes and interacted with performers and volunteers. The gathering brings together the Sikh community for sports competitions, cultural activities and celebrations, Hindustan Times has reported.
One of the most talked-about moments came when Luxon stood behind a large wok of hot oil and attempted to make jalebis. Spectators captured the light-hearted scene as he carefully poured the batter, smiling through the challenge.
Sharing a video of the moment on Instagram, Luxon wrote, “Getting amongst it at the Sikh Games in Takanini this afternoon with local MP @rimanakhlenz. Good luck to all those competing - and to those who end up eating my attempt at making jalebi!”, as reported by Hindustan Times.
Social media users responded enthusiastically. One user commented, “The coolest Prime Minister ever. Great!!!”Another added, "Half kg for me please". A third wrote, “Prime Minister what you cooking its looks dilecions yummy. The best cook awesome.” Others described the gesture as “wonderful” and “cool,” appreciating the Prime Minister’s willingness to participate in the festivities, as quoted by Hindustan Times.
MP Rima Nakhle also shared photos from the event on Instagram, showing Luxon and ministers Mark Mitchell and Simeon Brown meeting participants across the venue.
She wrote: “Another amazing, electric, phenomenal @nzsikhgames has just wrapped up at South Auckland’s sport complex @brucepulmanpark. Our Prime Minister @christopherluxon and Ministers @markmitchellmp and @simeonbrownmp had a fantastic time at the opening ceremony, and afterwards, while meeting many athletes, spectators and volunteers,” Hindustan Times has quoted.
“The NZ Sikh Games is a large-scale competition with many traditional Sikh sports as well as Western sports. Athletes and spectators travel not only from all across New Zealand, but also from around the world. Congratulations to the organisers and volunteers on such a successful event!” she added, as reported by Hindustan Times.