The Indian Cultural Society (Waikato) Inc. was established in 1990 as one of the pioneering organizations celebrating the Diwali festival in Hamilton. We continue to uphold this cherished tradition and have expanded our celebrations to include the Waikato Holi Mela and Waikato New Year Mela in recent years. Our mission is to promote the appreciation and advancement of Indian culture, language, and literature, while also fostering a multicultural philosophy that enriches activities and structures throughout New Zealand society.
Our Motto is “Celebrating Indian Heritage, Inspiring a Multicultural Future.”
Our mission is to cultivate and celebrate the richness of Indian culture, language, and literature in the Waikato region. Through vibrant festivals such as Diwali, Holi, and New Year Mela, we strive to foster a spirit of multiculturalism that strengthens community bonds and enriches New Zealand society. We are committed to preserving our heritage while embracing diversity, ensuring a harmonious and inclusive future for all.
On behalf of the Indian Cultural Society Waikato Incorporated and the Event Management Team, we would like to extend our deepest gratitude to everyone who contributed to making this year’s Diwali Mela a resounding success.
To our generous sponsors and funders, your support was invaluable in bringing this event to life. Thank you for believing in our vision and for making it possible to host such a vibrant and diverse celebration. To our dedicated helpers, volunteers, and contractors, your tireless efforts behind the scenes did not go unnoticed. Despite the initial challenges posed by the weather, your commitment ensured that the event ran smoothly and safely for all. Your hard work is truly appreciated.
To our wonderful stall holders, thank you for offering an incredible array of food and goods that enriched the experience for our attendees. Your contribution was essential to creating a lively and enjoyable atmosphere. And most importantly, to the public who attended—thank you for braving the weather and demonstrating your dedication to this celebration. Your presence, with over 11,000 attendees, surpassed our expectations and underscored the strong sense of community among us. Your enthusiasm and energy infused the day with joy and excitement, making it unforgettable for everyone involved.
The event featured beautiful and powerful performances and celebrated our shared cultural heritage. The fireworks display at the end was truly the icing on the cake, marking a spectacular conclusion to a memorable day. We look forward to seeing you all next year. Until then, thank you for being an invaluable part of our community and for making Diwali Mela 2024 a festival to remember.
Warm regards,
Indian Cultural Society Waikato Incorporated
We are thrilled to share that we have captured some of the best moments from the event. Here is a link to watch the highlights of the Waikato Diwali Mela 2024: