New Zealand is one of the most ethnically diverse countries in the world, and this diversity is a source of strength for Aotearoa.
Ethnic communities that make up this multicultural NZ have a considerable contribution to NZ’s economic and social fabric. There is little denying that the Kiwi Indian community in NZ is growing by leaps and bounds. The Indian diaspora is indispensable in the migrant community, and Kiwi Indians love to bring a slice of their own culture to NZ through various cultural associations.
Continuing with our series on cultural Indian associations in NZ, in this twenty-third edition, we take a closer look at the Dunedin Tamil Society (DTS), which has more than 300 members.
The Tamil community is known to have a strong presence in NZ, and that's why there are around ten registered Tamil associations in NZ.
Giving details about the history of DTS, which was registered in 2017, Rajesh Katare, President of DTS, said, “It was first started as a friend group (Dunedin Tamil Friends) who were interested in bringing in Tamil culture together. It endeavours to foster understanding, friendship and goodwill among people of Tamil origin and between various cross-sections of the people of Dunedin and the wider Otago region. It was registered in 2017.”
DTS aims to provide social support and networking opportunities for new migrants and New Zealanders who are Tamil-speaking people or identify themselves as people of Tamil culture. It also encourages people interested in learning, promoting and celebrating the Tamil language and culture, irrespective of their language and/or cultural identity."
Katare reveals DTS organises many events to keep the Tamil culture and language alive in NZ, including Pongal (harvesting festival), Tamil New year, Eid, Deepavali and Christmas, where we bring Tamil-speaking members together to develop bonding.
In association with Auckland Muthamiz Sangam, DTS also conduct Tamil classes for the future generation. Moreover, DTS also host community sports events such as cricket and Tennis and has a separate Women’s wing to develop bonding and sharing of experiences between them.
However, Katare reveals that convincing volunteers is the biggest challenge.
Lastly, when asked about the association’s future, Katare says, “We want to continue to foster Tamil culture and language among our community. We would also like to work with other associations from around NZ for this purpose. Our next biggest event will be Deepavali on November 5, and our members are gearing up for the same.”