A couple dressed in traditional Uttarakhand attire attend the Herala festival in Auckland. Photo: Supplied/Uttarakhand Association of New Zealand
More than 250 people celebrated the Uttarakhand Association of New Zealand's annual Harela festival in Auckland's New Lynn on 19 July.
Uttarakhand is a state located in the Himalayas in northern India that is also known as Dev Bhoomi in Hindi, or "Land of the Gods".
Chetan Joshi, president of the association, said the festival was deeply rooted in the culture, spirituality and natural heritage of his state.
"Harela, which means 'Day of Green', is more than just a harvest festival. It is a celebration of renewal, prosperity and harmony with nature," Joshi said.
"In Uttarakhand, it marks the onset of the monsoon, the sowing season and a spiritual reminder that our lives are deeply connected to the cycles of the Earth.
"It is a day when families plant saplings, bless their children for a prosperous future and pray for environmental balance and abundance."
Joshi, who was instrumental in establishing the association more than a decade ago, said the festival helps "keep the flame of rich Uttarakhandi traditions alive while also embracing the diversity and inclusivity that Aotearoa represents".
In India, the festival has both religious and agrarian connotations.
Communities in the Himalayas set up clay idols of Hindu god Shiva and goddess Parvati to celebrate their divine union.
Devotees pray to the couple for a good harvest and environmental harmony.
In line with the festival's green ethos, several tree plantation drives were initiated to mark the occasion.
"Our communities have been celebrating this festival for at least the last 300 years," Joshi said.
"Every year, here in New Zealand, the Indian community gathers at this time and renew its commitment to sustainable living, cultural preservation and community bonding."
