The Hindu Heritage Centre, a division of the Hindu Council of New Zealand, opened its doors for the city’s first-ever World Meditation Day celebration. Held on December 21, the event drew over 30 participants despite the bustling pre-Christmas season, showcasing a collective commitment to mindfulness, inner peace, and global harmony.
Recognised by the United Nations, World Meditation Day emphasises the transformative power of meditation in fostering individual and collective well-being. The Rotorua event marked a significant milestone in bringing the global observance to the city’s community.
The event commenced with a traditional lamp-lighting ceremony, graced by prominent guests Shri Vijay Kumar Patel, a respected Rotorua businessman representing BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir; Nilamani Wright, founder of SoulShine Yoga and an expert yoga teacher; and Dr Barbara Hock, a senior scientist and meditation instructor. Each guest was honoured with a ceremonial tilak and an orange scarf, presented by children from the Hindu scripture class. The students also recited Vedic mantras and shlokas, adding to the serene atmosphere.
In his opening remarks, Shri Vijay Kumar Patel highlighted meditation’s timeless relevance. “Meditation is an ancient practice deeply rooted in Dharmic traditions,” he noted. “It fosters personal well-being and builds resilient communities. Amid today’s fast-paced world, pausing for self-reflection reduces stress and cultivates emotional balance.”
A standout moment of the day was an interactive session by Nilamani Wright, who explored the deep interconnection between yoga, meditation, and holistic health. “Meditation is like watering the roots of a tree,” Wright explained. “When we nurture our inner selves, our outer lives flourish.” She introduced participants to the eight limbs of yoga and led a pranayama (breathing) exercise, allowing attendees to experience the power of breath firsthand.
Dr Barbara Hock’s guided meditation session followed, drawing from her 25 years of practice. She shared how meditation helped balance her career as a senior scientist with family life. “Modern life fills our minds with noise,” she remarked. “Meditation isn’t about silencing the mind instantly but learning to slow our thoughts, one breath at a time.” Her humming meditation exercise resonated deeply, leaving participants with a sense of clarity and calm.
Adding to the day’s significance, Dr Guna Magesan, President of the Hindu Council of New Zealand, announced two major developments. The first was the successful acquisition of funding from the Rotorua Lakes Council’s Community Matching Fund to develop a community garden at the Hindu Heritage Centre. “This garden will serve as a space for food cultivation, reflection, and healing,” Dr Magesan said, inviting attendees to join a working bee to help establish it.
The second announcement celebrated the appointment of Nilamani Wright as the national coordinator for the 2025 Health for Humanity Yogathon. “Nilamani’s dedication to promoting health through yoga is inspiring, and we are confident she will take this initiative to greater heights,” Dr Magesan stated.
The event’s master of ceremonies, Varsha Kaki, guided the proceedings with poise, while Dr Julia Anne, an award-winning scientist and manager of the Hindu Heritage Centre, delivered the vote of thanks. “Today’s gathering reminds us that mindfulness and community are interconnected,” she said. “By coming together, we not only nourish our spirits but strengthen our collective bonds.”
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