Rotorua’s Hindu Heritage Centre, a division of the Hindu Council of New Zealand, opened its doors to the public for the city’s first World Meditation Day celebration, a globally recognised event promoting mindfulness, inner peace, and collective well-being. Despite the busy pre-Christmas season, more than 30 participants gathered on Saturday to mark the occasion, demonstrating the community’s shared commitment to personal growth and global harmony.
Recognised by the United Nations, World Meditation Day underscores the transformative power of meditation in fostering peace and balance, both individually and collectively.
A Spiritual Beginning
The event commenced with a traditional lamp-lighting ceremony led by distinguished guests: Shri Vijay Kumar Patel, a respected Rotorua businessman representing BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir; Nilamani Wright, founder of SoulShine Yoga and an expert yoga teacher; and Dr Barbara Hock, senior scientist and meditation teacher. They were honoured with a ceremonial tilak and orange scarf, presented by children from the Hindu scripture class. During the lamp-lighting ceremony, the students enriched the atmosphere by reciting Vedic mantras and shlokas.
In his opening remarks, Shri Vijay Patel reflected on the significance of meditation across generations. “Meditation is an ancient practice deeply rooted in Dharmic traditions,” he said. “It is not only a pathway to personal well-being but also a bridge to building stronger, more resilient communities. In today’s fast-paced world, taking a moment for self-reflection helps us reduce stress, cultivate focus, and foster emotional balance.”
Inspiring Moments
A highlight of the event was an interactive talk by Nilamani Wright, who explored the profound connection between yoga, meditation, and holistic health. “Meditation is like watering the roots of a tree,” Wright explained. “When we nurture our inner selves, our outer lives flourish. Through breathwork and movement, we align our body, mind, and spirit.” She introduced the audience to the eight limbs of yoga and led a pranayama (breathing) session, inviting participants to experience the power of breath firsthand.
Dr Barbara Hock followed with a guided meditation session that left participants with a sense of clarity and stillness. Drawing from over 25 years of personal practice, Barbara shared her journey of balancing a demanding career as a senior scientist and family life through meditation. “Modern life often fills our minds with noise,” she said. “Meditation isn’t about silencing the mind instantly but learning to slow the stream of thoughts, one breath at a time. It’s in those moments of stillness that we rediscover our true selves.” Her humming meditation exercise resonated deeply, with many expressing how grounded and peaceful they felt afterward.
Community Announcements
Dr Guna Magesan, President of the Hindu Council of New Zealand, made two significant announcements that added to the celebratory spirit of the event. First, he shared the exciting news of securing funding from Rotorua Lakes Council’s Community Matching Fund for the development of a community garden at the Hindu Heritage Centre. “This garden will not only serve as a place for growing food but also as a space for reflection, healing, and connection,” Dr Magesan said. He encouraged all attendees to join the upcoming working bee to help establish the garden, emphasizing the importance of collective effort and community involvement.
Secondly, Dr Magesan proudly announced that Nilamani Wright has been appointed as the national coordinator for Health for Humanity Yogathon 2025. “Nilamani’s dedication to promoting health and wellness through yoga is truly inspiring, and we are confident that under her leadership, the Yogathon will reach new heights and benefit communities across New Zealand,” he remarked.
Gratitude and Acknowledgements
Varsha Kaki served as the master of ceremonies, guiding the event with warmth and grace. Dr Julia Anne, an award-winning scientist and businesswoman who manages Look After Me and the Hindu Heritage Centre, delivered the vote of thanks. “Today’s gathering is a reminder that mindfulness and community go hand in hand,” she remarked. “By coming together in this space, we not only nourish our spirits but also strengthen the bonds that unite us as a community.”
The success of Rotorua’s inaugural World Meditation Day highlighted the growing local interest in practices that promote mental health and spiritual well-being. With positive feedback from attendees, the Hindu Heritage Centre looks forward to hosting future events that inspire, heal, and bring people together.
