Contribution of New Zealand’s Hindu Community Recognised at Prestigious Awards Night

The Hindu Council of New Zealand (HCNZ) and Hindu Youth New Zealand (HYNZ) were honoured for their outstanding contributions at the Tenth Annual Indian Newslink Sports, Community, Arts, and Culture Awards 2024, held earlier this week at the ISSO Swaminarayan Complex in Papatoetoe, Auckland. The esteemed awards ceremony celebrates the achievements of individuals and organisations from various ethnic backgrounds with roots in the Indian/Bharatiya Subcontinent.

This year, approximately 80 awards were presented across categories such as sports, community service, arts, and culture. The event was a vibrant celebration of excellence and cultural diversity, attended by distinguished guests and community members.

Two prominent leaders from the Hindu community, Prof. Guna Magesan and Shri Murali Krishna Magesan, were recognised for their exceptional service and leadership.

Under the leadership of Prof. Guna Magesan, the Hindu Council of New Zealand received the Raman (Ray) Ranchhod Special Commemorative Award for its contributions to various communities in New Zealand. Through numerous initiatives, including national Hindu conferences, Hindu-Maori hui, Maori and Hindu leaders’ delegations to India, annual Marae stays, and large-scale celebrations of unique Maori and Hindu festivals such as Matariki and Raksha Bandhan, the Hindu Council of New Zealand has significantly contributed to the social fabric of New Zealand. The council also offers educational programs and workshops on Yoga, Spirituality and Mental Health, “Medication to Meditation,” and other charitable activities. This award highlights the community’s ongoing commitment to service and its contributions to the wider New Zealand society.

Similarly, Hindu Youth New Zealand, led by Shri Murali Krishna Magesan, received the Community Award for their services to youth in New Zealand. HYNZ has been at the forefront of helping youth reach their potential and nurturing the next generation of proud young Hindu leaders. This recognition underscores Hindu Youth New Zealand’s dedication to empowering youth through leadership development, cultural education, and community involvement. Their DharmaFest is well recognised and respected by the community.

The Hindu Council of New Zealand extends its heartfelt gratitude to Indian Newslink for recognising the contributions of the Hindu community. These awards symbolise the collective effort and dedication of the entire Hindu community in New Zealand. This recognition not only celebrates individual achievements but also highlights the collective effort of the community in promoting cultural awareness, social cohesion, and community development.

For further information, please contact:

Prof. Guna Magesan
- President, Hindu Council of New Zealand
- Email: hindu.nz@gmail.com
Murali Krishna Magesan
- President, Hindu Youth New Zealand
- Email: hinduyouth.newzealand@gmail.com

About the Hindu Council of New Zealand: The Hindu Council of New Zealand (HCNZ) is an organisation that has been serving the New Zealand community for over 25 years, inspiring a dynamic, vibrant Hindu society inspired by Hindu Dharma and the ideal of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (the world is one family).