The Hindu Council of New Zealand, in collaboration with the Hindu Organisations, Temples, and Associations (HOTA) Forum, is thrilled to announce the second “Pilgrimage to Bharat” – a two-week spiritual journey designed to foster a deep connection with cultural and Dharmic heritage. Led by Dr Guna Magesan, President of the Hindu Council of New Zealand, this transformative yatra invites participants to explore some of Bharat’s most revered spiritual and historical landmarks.
The pilgrimage will take place from January 27 to February 12, 2025, offering a meticulously curated itinerary that brings together spiritual, historical, and cultural experiences. This journey is open to 20–25 participants from New Zealand, Australia, Fiji, and Bharat. Highlights include the Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, the newly inaugurated Shri Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, and the recently restored Kashi Vishwanath Corridor in Varanasi.
Beginning in New Delhi, the pilgrimage will pass through Kurukshetra, Rishikesh, Haridwar, Ayodhya, Varanasi (Kashi), Sarnath, Prayagraj, Vrindavan, Mathura, and conclude in New Delhi. Throughout the journey, pilgrims will have opportunities to deepen their understanding of Bharat’s sacred sites, guided by local experts who will share the history and significance of each location.
Reflections from the First Bharat Yatra
The inaugural Bharat yatra included memorable highlights: witnessing the Mahamangala Aarti at Kashi Vishwanath Mandir, exploring the sacred sites of Lord Krishna in Vrindavan and Mathura, and visiting the Shri Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. Pilgrims celebrated Holi with temple priests and had the honour of a photo with Shri Ram Lalla at the Mandir.
Other cherished experiences included a revitalising yoga session with Pujya Baba Ramdev at Patanjali Ashram in Haridwar, the Ganga Aarti with Swami Chidanand Muni ji at Parmarth Niketan in Rishikesh, and a sacred dip at the Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj. Delegates also had the chance to interact with Sadhvi Niranjan Jyoti ji, Union Minister of State, and Dr Chinmaya Pandya, Pro Vice Chancellor of Dev Sanskriti Vishwavidyalaya, Haridwar.
The Ganga Samiti, represented by Shri Tanmay Vashisht, graciously allowed delegates to light ceremonial lamps during the Ganga Aarti in Haridwar. The Samiti will also conduct a special pooja dedicated to the 2025 pilgrimage delegates. The full report of the first yatra can be accessed at https://hotaforumnz.org/bharat-dham-yatra/.
An Invitation to All
The Hindu Council of New Zealand and the HOTA Forum warmly invite those interested in this profound spiritual journey. Whether a regular practitioner or someone curious about Bharat’s spiritual heritage, this pilgrimage offers transformative experiences, lasting connections, and cherished memories.
Limited Seats – Reserve Your Spot Today!
With limited seats available, early registration is encouraged. For the complete itinerary, pricing, and other inquiries, please contact:
- Email: [email protected]
- WhatsApp: +64 210345621
Join us for this sacred journey to Bharat, where history, Dharma, and cultural richness come together for an unforgettable spiritual experience.
– Prof Guna Magesan
President, Hindu Council of New Zealand
Coordinator, Hindu Leaders Pilgrimage
About Hindu Council of New Zealand:
The Hindu Council of New Zealand, established in 1996 and formally incorporated in 2006, is a non-profit organisation dedicated to promoting Hindu culture, values, and traditions in New Zealand. Through various initiatives and events such as New Zealand National Hindu conferences, annual Health for Humanity Yogathon, and Hindu Māori Hui, the council strives to foster interfaith understanding, community cohesion, and spiritual growth among Hindus and the wider community.
