New Zealand: Indians living in New Plymouth City of New Zealand donned in traditional clothing, gathered in huge numbers on Saturday, August 13 to celebrate the Indian Independence Day programme, with great vigour and festive fervour which was hosted by New Plymouth Indian Community (NPICNZ). The freezing winter with temperature running down to 10 degrees Celsius with showers of rain did not deter the Indians and Kiwi friends from turning out to participate in the Pre Independence Day celebrations held at St. Andrew’s Church hall in the evening.
The celebrations started with a welcome and introductory speech from Narayanan Kutty, the president of NPICNZ. Two elders of the community lit the lamp followed by the National anthem sung by all in chorus.
Speaking on the occasion, one of the elders shared his personal memories on Independence Day celebrations.The programme continued with cultural performances by kids and young adults, along with quiz questions. The entertainment planned was multi-layered and brought about the best talent. From kids’ Bollywood classical twist dance, to Jana Gana Mana on the keyboard by talented kid artist Shaurya, speech by another young student Sriram on Independence, to ‘Mile Sur MeraTumhara’ sung in 14 languages led by Raju Khadilkar, to delicious Indian food & deserts – the team had thought of everything. The function also featured patriotic songs by the children and members of NPICNZ. Huge efforts and preparation for the last few weeks had been put in by the organisers, parents and performers.
Anu Kutty, Viraj Khadilkar and Miss Exotic Beauty NZ – Valentine Fernandes compered the event. Before Bevinda Dias delivered the vote of thanks, NPICNZ Secretary Natalie gave a small report and spoke on the activities and future programmes planned for the year.
A cake in the shape of India with colours beautifully prepared by Anu Kutty, Hannah Nettikaden and Valentine Fernandes was one of the attractions of the day. The programme concluded with the New Zealand National anthem.
