The much-anticipated Auckland Diwali Festival that celebrates Indian culture and traditions on the Kiwi-land concluded last weekend. The overflowing crowd was evident to the growing popularity of the festival year by year, which is the result of relentless efforts and dedication of the volunteers and supporters.
This year Indian Weekender marked its presence on the main stage with Indian Weekender Ms Diwali and Mr Diwali contest on October 15 and 16. The cultural fashion pageant aimed at showcasing the traditional fashion from different parts of India was well received by the audience on both days of the festival.
The lucky winners of the inaugural contest were Devika Mhetar for Indian Weekender Ms Diwali and Likith Povanna for Indian Weekender Mr Diwali. The winners were awarded return air tickets to Singapore sponsored by Air New Zealand, a portfolio shoot by Studio 81, food vouchers by Moti Mahal Indian restaurant and shopping vouchers by Akarshan.
The runners-up were Sukhmani Kaur for Indian Weekender Ms Diwali and Kariappa Maletira for Indian Weekender Mr Diwali, and were awarded Titan watches sponsored by Sona Sansaar, food voucher by Moti Mahal Indian restaurant and shopping vouchers by Akarshan.
11 contestants were shortlisted and groomed through a series of workshops by Parth Dalal and Bindi Desai Dalal, who were the choreographers for the fashion show.
The contestants had to go through two rounds—traditional extravaganza and talent show—during the two days of the show. The three judges were—Rupal Solanki, well-known theatre artist; DJ Areeb, Auckland’s top Bollywood fusion DJ of Bollywood Affair fame; and Ram Lingam, a prolific writer and a commentator on Indian culture.
Other contestants included Geetanjali Jaglan, Shaira Kiran, Kia Khan, Sandeep Kaur, Iqbal Singh, Sunny Singh and Harmeet Singh. The show was emceed by Kritika Satija.
The overwhelming response from the audience has motivated us to do better next time and we hope to entertain you even more next year.