If you like to experience the ‘Real Diwali,’ complete with fireworks display, you should then be with us on October 24, 2010.
The daylong festival (from 1030 am to 10 pm), at the Trusts Stadium in Henderson (Waitakere), has always been one of a kind, organised by the Waitakere Indian Association, with the support and patronage of a number of organisation, and more importantly, the community.
Festivities will actually begin at 7 pm the previous day (October 23) with Dandiya (Dance), which is known for its colour and vigour.
It is heartening to note that from a modest beginning in 2000 with an attendance of 300 people, our Festival has grown to attract more than 3000 men, women and children of almost all ethnic groups resident in and around Auckland.
The Festival is also renowned as an event that helps families and friends to get together and spend a day in harmony and happiness.
That is exactly the spirit and content of Diwali – to promote goodwill and understanding among people. That has also been the objective and stated purpose of the Waitakere Indian Association. Our emphasis on people-oriented activities has encouraged us to develop and implement programmes for the wider community.
These include a Senior Citizens Group, a Hindi Language School, Cultural Classes and Youth Development Programmes.
Our Association was also a proud participant in the New Zealand Action Diversity Programme for this year.
Holi, the Festival of Colours, is another major cultural event for the Association.
As a community-driven event, we ensure that our Diwali Festival is not hijacked by other interests, but adheres to the true meaning and content of the Festival of Lights as observed in most parts of India.
Our programme comprises a number of multicultural items with performers representing all age groups, with additional flavour by our Seniors Group and local students, who will present special items.
That is not all. The Festival will include a Bazaar, which will have on sale and display a number of items, including arts and crafts, other products and food.
Anand Naidu is President of Waitakere Indian Association. Phone (09) 6292480
Mobile: 021- 1088-592 Email anand@orcon.net.nz
