Auckland hosts Gayatri Pariwar

More than 3000 people converged on Auckland’s Mount Smart Stadium as the world’s Gayatri Pariwar came together for three days of Ashwamedh Mahayagna 2009, starting February 27.

Hundreds thronged the huge tent at the stadium each day for prayers, havans, chant the Gayatri Mantra and to listen to discourse delivered by the international head of the Pariwar, Dr Pranav Pandya and other spititual leaders.

Dr Pandya, a gold medallist in medicine and a direct disciple of Pandit Shriram Sharma Acharya, is renowned the world over as a pioneer of scientific spirituality. He was accompanied on this trip by his wife Shraddheya Shailbala Pandya, who is affectionately known as Jiji.

The function attracted widespread support from community leaders, government and other party leaders and members.

“I wish you well for Ashwamedh Mahayagna 2009, the first of its kind in New Zealand. Such events celebrate and reflect this country’s many cultures and religions,” Prime Minister John Key said.

The function was also backed by Opposition leader Phil Goff, Minister for Ethnic Affairs Pansy Wong, MP Dr Richard Worth, MP Dr Rajen Prasad, MP Bakshi, MP Dr Ashraf Choudhary, The Hindu Heritage Charitable Trust, and the New Zealand Indian Central Association.