Māori-Indian Collaborations Shine at India’s Independence Day Festivities

New Zealand’s Indian community celebrated India’s Independence Day with vibrant festivities over the weekend, culminating in a series of cultural events that highlighted the nation’s rich diversity. From August 16 to August 18, cities such as Auckland, Wellington, Hamilton, Dunedin, and Palmerston North hosted various programs reflecting India’s millennia-old heritage.

In Auckland, the largest Indian diaspora in New Zealand came together for multiple events, showcasing the spirit of collaboration between Māori and Indian cultures. A particularly noteworthy highlight was a MasterChef competition where Māori chefs faced off against their Indian counterparts. This culinary contest featured innovative dishes that combined Indian spices with New Zealand ingredients, demonstrating a fusion of flavors that excited attendees.

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and opposition leader Chris Hipkins joined forces on stage during the celebration at the Dew Drop Events Centre on August 16, engaging the audience with lively performances to popular Indian music. The following day, cultural organizations representing over 15 Indian states performed traditional folk and classical dances at Auckland’s Mount Eden, filling the venue with vibrant displays of cultural heritage.

The festivities began on August 15, marking the anniversary of India’s independence from British rule in 1947. The Indian High Commission in Wellington, along with India’s Consulate General in Auckland, hosted a joint reception to commemorate the occasion. Notable attendees included Nikhil Ravishankar, the incoming chief executive of Air New Zealand, who is set to take the helm of the airline in October. Ethnic Communities Minister Mark Mitchell praised Ravishankar’s appointment, underscoring the significant contributions of the Indian community in New Zealand.

Throughout the celebrations, speakers highlighted the importance of friendship and unity. With the Indian population now surpassing the Chinese community, it has become the third largest ethnic group in New Zealand, with 292,092 individuals identifying as having Indian heritage, according to the 2023 Census. This figure represents a remarkable 22 percent increase since 2018, illustrating the community’s growing presence and prosperity in New Zealand.

Celebrations included a variety of cultural performances that showcased the Indian community’s rich artistic heritage. In Palmerston North, groups representing different Indian states came together for an event titled “United in Diversity.” The Dunedin Indian Association organized a “grand patriotic event” at the University of Otago featuring Carnatic music, while Hamilton welcomed Indian pop singer Shibani Kashyap for a lively concert, supported by local cultural organizations.

The collaboration between Māori and Indian communities was further exemplified through the Whiria Collective and India’s CD Foundation, which curated a fashion show and culinary event. Chefs from both cultures showcased their skills, with Māori chefs Sam Linstrom, Hera Te Kurapa, and Ihirei Walker competing against Indian chefs Satyanarayana Pandari, Anuj Mathur, Suprabhat Banerjee, and Prem Ram. The judges, including Anand Erickson, a lecturer at Auckland University of Technology, expressed enthusiasm for the innovative culinary creations.

“I am looking forward to more culinary collaborations between our two cultures in the future,” Erickson remarked, highlighting the potential for future partnerships in the culinary arts.

Among the cultural performances, the award-winning dance group from Telangana received high praise for their presentations of ancient dance forms such as Perini Natyam, Oggu Katha, and Dappu. Dancer Ravi Kumar explained how their performances narrate stories related to the Hindu God Shiva, a significant figure in Telangana culture.

Community members, including Sonali Banerjee from the Probasee Bengali Association, emphasized the importance of these celebrations in passing down Indian heritage to younger generations. Performing classical dance forms such as Mohiniyattam, Mary Shaji echoed this sentiment, stating, “Marking our festivals, including Independence Day, is a way for all of us here in New Zealand to remain connected to our Indian roots and values.”

The celebrations not only highlighted the enduring spirit of the Indian community but also showcased the rich tapestry of cultural exchanges in New Zealand, reinforcing ties between Māori and Indian traditions. As the community continues to thrive, events like these serve as a reminder of the shared values and cooperation that strengthen New Zealand’s multicultural identity.