Hindu Youth New Zealand (HYNZ) is delighted to announce the upcoming DharmaFest 2025, held in collaboration with the HOTA (Hindu Organisations, Temples, and Associations) Forum. This vibrant, youth-led celebration will take place on Saturday, 22 November 2025, at the Hindu Heritage Centre, 225 Malfroy Road, Rotorua, from 10:00 am to 2:30 pm.
Launched in 2022 under the leadership of Murali Krishna Magesan, DharmaFest is an inspiring initiative by Hindu Youth New Zealand that brings together various Dharma-based organisations, temples, and spiritual groups to celebrate the theme “Vibhinnatāyām Ekatvam” — Unity in Diversity.
This year’s festival will highlight how Dharmic values continue to enrich New Zealand’s multicultural society through contributions in art, food, clothing, crafts, wellness practices, and knowledge systems such as Yoga, Ayurveda, and Meditation. DharmaFest serves as a unique platform for Dharmic communities to engage, collaborate, and showcase their cultural and spiritual heritage.
The event will begin with prayers and blessings from community leaders representing diverse Dharma traditions. This opening ceremony will acknowledge the collective spirit of unity and harmony that underpins the Dharmic way of life. The youth-led nature of the festival symbolises intergenerational collaboration, where elders bless and encourage young people to continue upholding and sharing Dharmic values.
Throughout the day, visitors can explore vibrant stalls featuring cultural exhibits, arts and crafts, Yoga and Ayurveda workshops, wellness demonstrations, Mehndi (henna) art, jewellery, and clothing. This year’s special focus is on Health and Wellness, offering the public practical insights into holistic living. Attendees can also enjoy a variety of authentic vegetarian cuisines from multiple food stalls, reflecting the culinary diversity of Dharmic cultures.
“We are excited to bring DharmaFest to Rotorua for the public to experience,” said Komal Sahani, Coordinator of DharmaFest 2025.
“It’s an opportunity for the wider community to come together, learn from one another, and celebrate the shared values of peace, harmony, and respect,” said Dr Guna Magesan, President of Hindu Council of New Zealand.
Adding to the celebrations, Mantra Band will perform a special evening concert from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm at the Hindu Heritage Centre — their first-ever performance in Rotorua. Known for their uplifting and spiritually inspired music, Mantra Band’s concert is expected to be a major attraction for both locals and visitors.
“We have performed at DharmaFest in Auckland and are thrilled to support the youth-led initiative in Rotorua,” said Paramahamsa Dasa, Manager of Mantra Band.
The Chairperson of Meditation NZ, Radha Dasi, will also be attending DharmaFest and will guide participants through basic meditation techniques.
She stated, “It is our privilege to inspire young people and the wider community to experience kirtan and to share in the spiritual joy, peace, and unity that DharmaFest represents.”
DharmaFest 2025 is expected to draw participants and visitors from New Zealand’s vibrant multicultural communities, including those with roots in India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Fiji, the Philippines, Thailand, China, Korea, Japan, South Africa, and beyond.
(This Press Release has been published as received)
