More than 500 people gathered in Freemans Bay on Saturday, October 24, for a celebration of Diwali and Muthtamil Sangam Nite.
Traditional South Indian food and traditional dance items was the feature of the evening, said Auckland Muthtamil Sangam executive committee member S Subbiyah.
Muthtamil Sangam has been serving the Tamil speaking community of Auckland for more than six years.
“Our goal is to promote the understanding of our Tamil language and cultural values of India,” the organisation’s website says.
“We have crossed the seas, soared the skies to reach New Zealand. Yet, our culture and our language have remained with us. We seek to promote and co-ordinate Tamil cultural, educational and community activities.
“Muthtamil Sangam is a non-profit organization devoted to furthering Tamil culture in Auckland region. We are open to all persons interested in promoting the Tamil language and culture.”
Subbiyah said a grand night was had by all where people enjoyed the dance items and traditional food.
Labour leader Phil Goff was one of many dignitaries who attended the function including Chris Carter and New Zealand’s first Indian MP Kanwal Singh Bakshi.