22nd January 2024 marked one of the most significant events for Hindus around the world – the consecration of Bhagwan Shri Ram Mandir (Temple) in Ayodhya. It marked the end of an almost 500-year civilisational struggle of the Hindu society to reclaim one of their most sacred kshetras (land) and see their most revered Bhagwan Ram move from a makeshift tent to a proper sanctified temple.
Bhagwan Ram occupies a profoundly significant place not only in the hearts of Hindus but also in the collective consciousness of a broader global audience. His life and virtues are not just revered within the boundaries of Hindu Dharma but are celebrated as historical narratives across numerous countries in Southeast Asia such as Indonesia, Thailand, and Cambodia to name a few. This universal reverence became vividly apparent as people from diverse backgrounds, transcending political, linguistic, ethnic, and cultural differences, united to commemorate the momentous occasion marking the return of Bhagwan Ram to his birthplace. The spirit of celebration resonated strongly in Bharat and reverberated around the world.
In New Zealand, this jubilant atmosphere manifested itself through grand celebrations in various cities. Temples, community centres, and the iconic Eden Park in Auckland became vibrant hubs of festivity. The widespread participation in these events was a testament to the profound significance that this celebration held for Hindus in New Zealand. The air was filled with a sense of reverence, joy, and gratitude as individuals gathered to pray and express gratitude for having the privilege of witnessing this grand event in their lifetime.
However, during this time of jubilant celebrations, Hindu New Zealanders have been appalled to see numerous Hinduphobic articles published by media outlets in New Zealand. 1news, NZ Herald, Radio NZ, have all published content which omit key facts regarding the building of the temple, misguide readers and promotes vitriol towards Hindus, those who hold Bhagwan Ram in the highest reverence and celebrate this occasion for special place it holds in their hearts.
HOTA Forum NZ, representing more than 70 Hindu Organisations, Temples and Associations, strongly condemns the abhorrent peddling of false narratives and hatred towards Hindus. These media houses are responsible for creating division within New Zealand’s diverse, pluralistic communities.
The continued and systematic negative portrayal of Hindus in New Zealand is starting to hurt the community and impacting on how they live here. The news articles have hurt the communities’ religious sentiments. The hatred shown towards the Hindus and their revered Bhagwan Ram is distasteful. These media outlets are also sending a signal that Hindus are not welcome to practice their faith, have large gatherings to celebrate significant events they consider special and are especially not free to celebrate/ pray and sing praises of Bhagwan Ram.
Hindus are highly educated, qualified, accomplished community, deeply rooted in their traditional values. Hindus contribute to Economy, Education, Health, Science & Technology, and Culture. Hindus are peace loving, law abiding, co-existing and contributing community not only in New Zealand but also throughout the world.
Aotearoa prides itself on being a nation which celebrates the various ethnicities, faiths, religions, and cultures which all add to its diversity. However, many of the public funded media outlets have attempted to paint the Hindu community in a negative light on a historic event which is held dearly by Hindus in New Zealand and around the world.
The articles, which discuss the inauguration event, have been criticised for their inaccuracies, omission of key facts and anti-Hindu bias towards the Hindu community. For reference, please see the attached document.
HOTA Forum NZ calls upon New Zealand media outlets such as 1news, NZ Herald, Radio NZ to remove the news articles from their websites and issue an apology to the Hindu community and only publish it once it has included all facts and statements, including key facts such as the archaeological survey which highlighted the Babri structure was in fact built on top of an existing Hindu temple – a sign of subjugation of the indigenous Hindu community. A long court battle with numerous pieces of evidence and historians weighed in providing evidence, leading to the resolution. However, NZ media has chosen to conduct a trial by themselves and wrongfully accuse an entire Hindu diaspora of wrongdoing.
We live in an Aotearoa which is focused on ensuring that any harm caused to indigenous people is made right through the means of ruling government and the correct usage of the judicial/ democratic system. As such, there should be greater appreciation of the work that India is doing in correcting the wrongs, the trauma of colonisation. However, these are overlooked, and political biases shown in the reporting.
False narratives and intentionally misleading the public by omitting key facts promotes hatred, extremism and potential violence against the hard working, peaceful Hindu community in New Zealand. New Zealand Media have a responsibility to ensure their reporting, coverage and or articles do not lead to violence against communities in New Zealand.
“While freedom of the press is crucial, it is equally vital that media outlets exercise their responsibilities with sensitivity, especially when covering events of deep cultural and civilisational significance. We believe in fostering mutual respect and understanding among diverse communities.” Nitika Sharma, spokesperson for HOTA Forum NZ, emphasized the importance of responsible journalism.
-Nitika Sharma
About HOTA Forum NZ: Hindu Organisations, Temples, and Associations (HOTA) Forum New Zealand is a vibrant platform dedicated to fostering unity, collaboration, and progress among Hindu organisations, temples, and associations in New Zealand
