Around 300 people gathered in Te Puna on Tuesday to soak up the sounds, tastes and colourful sights of Indian culture, music and food at Unitec’s Diwali Festival celebrations.
Many kaimahi and ākonga from our Indian community proudly wore their traditional dress for the event, which was organised by our International Student Support and Student Services teams.
“We were blown away by the huge turnout for one of our best Diwali celebrations ever,” says International Coordinator, Melody Hao.
The Student Success Team surprised everyone by opening the programme with an energetic dance performance.
This was followed by several dancing and singing performances by ākonga.
“We served five different kinds of traditional Diwali foods and everything was gone by the end – they were so popular,” Melody adds.
Free Henna Painting, a Rangoli Design Workshop and a traditional dress competition all took place during Tuesday’s event.
Diwali, also called Deepavali or Deepawali, is the Hindu festival of lights. Diwali symbolises the spiritual victory of Dharma over Adharma, light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance.
Millions of Hindus around the world celebrate Diwali with gifts, lights, fireworks, and special meals. Diwali is also celebrated in many other countries — mainly where there are large Hindu, Sikh, Jain, or Indian diaspora communities.
A Diya Painting Workshop held at the Koru Pod kickstarted Unitec’s celebrations on Monday.
On Wednesday, 22 October, our Waitākere Campus whānau will be holding their Diwali celebration from 12–1pm on Level 1, B510.
There are 292,092 people Indian heritage living in New Zealand, or 5.8% of the country’s population, according to 2023 NZ Census data. Of that number 142,920 were born in India.
Indian New Zealanders are the largest group of New Zealand Asians. The fifth largest language in New Zealand is Hindi (2018 NZ Census).
At Unitec, almost a thousand ākonga of Indian descent were enrolled with us this year.
There are also a high number of Indian kaimahi in our Unitec whānau working across both campuses. They bring their identities, culture and backgrounds to their respective roles.
Meet some of our Indian kaimahi who share their stories and why Diwali is important to them.
MEET OUR INDIAN KAIMAHI
Venkatesh Mohan
What do you do at Unitec and how long have you been working here?
IT Helpdesk Specialist and one year working at Unitec.
Where were you born and where do you come from?
I was born in India and come from Chennai City and Tamilnadu Province.
Which languages do you speak?
I speak Tamil.
What does Diwali mean to you and how do you celebrate it?
I usually celebrate Diwali by decorating the house with lamps and candles, preparing traditional sweets, and spending time with family and friends. We also perform a small prayer (puja) at home for prosperity and well-being, followed by sharing festive food and exchanging gifts. For me, Diwali is not just a festival — it’s a reminder to spread light, kindness, and happiness wherever we go.
What makes you proud of being Indian?
I’m proud of being Indian because of our diverse culture, strong values, and sense of unity. India’s mix of traditions, languages, and festivals teaches us to respect and celebrate differences.
How do you incorporate your culture and language into your role at Unitec?
I incorporate my culture and language into my role at Unitec by promoting respect, inclusiveness, and empathy in my daily interactions. My background helps me connect easily with students and staff from diverse cultures, as I understand the importance of clear communication and cultural sensitivity. I also enjoy sharing small aspects of my culture—like celebrating festivals such as Diwali or using phrases from my native language to greet colleagues—which helps build a warm and welcoming environment. It’s my way of contributing to Unitec’s diverse and supportive community.
What is one thing about your home that it is famous for in India?
Chennai, Tamil Nadu is famous for is its rich cultural heritage and classical music and dance, especially Bharatanatyam and Carnatic music. Chennai is also known for its beautiful Marina Beach, historic temples, and delicious South Indian food like dosa, idli, and filter coffee.
Ankita Oommen
What do you do at Unitec and how long have you been working here?
I’m a Student Advisor in Student Central. I’ve been working at Unitec for about nine months, and it’s been such a welcoming and vibrant place to be.
Where were you born and where do you come from?
I was born and raised in India. I’m from Kerala, a beautiful southern state in India often called “God’s Own Country.” It’s lush, tropical, and full of life — just like its people!
Which languages do you speak?
I speak Malayalam, which is my mother tongue, and Hindi — not an expert, but I can definitely survive (hehehe!). And of course, English.
What does Diwali mean to you and how do you celebrate it?
It is such a joyful time for It’s all about laughter, music, food, and togetherness.
We celebrate with family and friends, lighting lamps, sharing traditional sweets, dancing, and of course, fireworks! We love dressing up in our traditional attire, and music is always part of the night. It’s truly one of the most beautiful times of the year — full of light, color, and warmth.
What makes you proud of being Indian?
India is an incredibly diverse country — 28 states, each with its own languages, traditions, and cuisines — yet we find unity in that diversity. Despite our differences, we come together to celebrate love, joy, and connection. That spirit of togetherness is what makes me so proud to be Indian.
How do you incorporate your culture and language into your role at Unitec?
My team is wonderfully diverse — we come from different cultural backgrounds, and we love sharing stories, teaching each other phrases from our native languages, and, of course, talking about food! It’s like we all carry little pieces of each other’s cultures. I think that love for connection, community, and culture reflects perfectly in what we do at Unitec every day.
What is one thing about your home that it is famous for in India?
Kerala is known as “God’s Own Country” — and it truly lives up to the name! We’re famous for our backwaters, beaches, and tea plantations. You name it, we’ve got it!
Abha Chitalia
What do you do at Unitec and how long have you been working here?
Senior Lecturer (Te Puna Ako). I’ve been working at Unitec for eight years and 7 months.
Where were you born and where do you come from?
I was born in India. I trace my Indian heritage to Jetpur, a city in the state of Gujarat where my grandparents were born.
Which languages do you speak?
Gujarati, Marathi, Hindi and English.
What does Diwali mean to you and how do you celebrate it?
Diwali, or Deepawali, is a special time to reflect, reconnect, and celebrate light and goodness. I visit the temple, prepare traditional Diwali dishes, and light diyas around my home to fill it with warmth and positivity. One of the most meaningful parts for me is calling my family to exchange wishes and laughter. It makes me feel close to home no matter where I am.
What makes you proud of being Indian?
India’s diversity in languages, food, festivals, and art is something I deeply appreciate.
How do you incorporate your culture and language into your role at Unitec?
I bring my Indian heritage into my role through values like respect, perseverance, and collaboration, which guide how I work with colleagues and support students. It also helps me appreciate diversity and approach challenges thoughtfully.
What is one thing about your home that it is famous for in India?
Jetpur is renowned as one of India’s major centres for screen-printing, block printing, and yarn dyeing, and is situated along the banks of the Bhadar River. My home city, Mumbai, in the state of Maharashtra, is famous as India’s financial hub.
Makarand Mahendra Wani
What do you do at Unitec and how long have you been working here?
I work as an IT Helpdesk Specialist at Unitec. I have been working here for the past 11 months.
Where were you born and where do you come from?
I was born in Mumbai in India. I trace my heritage to Jalgaon, Maharashtra, which is known as a major business hub for gold, bananas, pulses, and cotton. My family also has strong ties to Mumbai, Maharashtra.
Which languages do you speak?
I speak Hindi, English, and Marathi.
What does Diwali mean to you and how do you celebrate it?
To me, Diwali is a celebration of light, goodness, and new beginnings. It marks the victory of good over evil and light over darkness, rooted in the epic Ramayana, where Prince Rama (an incarnation of Vishnu) defeats the demon king Ravana to rescue his wife Sita (an incarnation of Lakshmi). Diwali commemorates their return to their kingdom after 14 years of exile. During Diwali, homes are beautifully decorated with lights and rangoli and filled with the sounds of firecrackers. We light lamps to welcome Goddess Lakshmi, inviting prosperity and joy. In Maharashtra, Diwali begins with Vasu-Baras, a day dedicated to worshipping cows, who are revered as mothers in Hindu tradition. It’s a time for togetherness, gratitude, and celebration with family and friends.
What makes you proud of being Indian?
I love being Indian. I’m proud of our deep-rooted values, respect for elders, strong family bonds, and our positive belief that everything will work out for the best. Our spirituality, resilience, warmth, and sense of community make us unique. We value education, honour our 5,000-year-old heritage, and cherish the stories of our epics. As Indians, we are known for helping others, welcoming guests with generosity, and building strong friendships. There’s something truly powerful about the Indian spirit—and I feel it deeply whenever I hear the National Anthem.
How do you incorporate your culture and language into your role at Unitec?
I apply key values from Indian work culture in my daily role. I respect the hierarchy and experience of colleagues, while fostering trust and strong personal connections. I believe in teamwork and collective success over individual credit. Being adaptable and open to change helps me stay effective in dynamic situations. I also tailor my communication style depending on the context—professional and respectful when needed, and friendly and approachable in more casual settings. These cultural values help me contribute to a supportive and productive workplace.
What is one thing about your home that it is famous for in India?
Mumbai, my birthplace, is known for being India’s financial capital, home to the Bollywood film industry, and its vibrant street food scene. Iconic landmarks like the Gateway of India and Marine Drive, along with the city’s cultural diversity, make Mumbai truly special.
Deepika Manglani
What do you do at Unitec and how long have you been working here?
I am the Internship Coordinator in the School of Applied Business. I joined Unitec in November 2024.
Where were you born and where do you come from?
I was born in Varanasi, India, and New Zealand has become my second home since moving here. I trace my heritage to Varanasi (Banaras) — the ancient, holy city on the banks of the Ganges — and to Jaipur, my husband’s hometown where I have lived for many years after marriage.
Which languages do you speak?
I speak Hindi, Sindhi and English.
What does Diwali mean to you and how do you celebrate it?
Diwali to me is the celebration of light over darkness, hope, and togetherness. I celebrate by cleaning house, lighting diyas, preparing sweets, wearing traditional clothes, and spending time with family. I also enjoy sharing the spirit of Diwali with family, friends and colleagues.
What makes you proud of being Indian?
I am proud of India’s rich diversity, deep traditions, and strong sense of community. Our festivals, languages, food, and the value of looking after one another inspire me. Those cultural roots shape how I live and how I relate to people everywhere. In addition, our ancient practices of yoga, spirituality, and meditation keep me deeply connected to my roots. These traditions not only promote inner peace and well-being but also reflect the timeless wisdom of our culture.
How do you incorporate your culture and language into your role at Unitec?
I bring my culture into my work through everyday values — hospitality, kindness, and generosity. I use culturally relatable examples when mentoring students, celebrate festivals to create belonging, and emphasize inclusive, relationship-driven approaches that help students feel supported and confident. A strong principle my parents raised me with is “sharing is caring.” I carry this forward by sharing my experiences with new students, especially when I’m invited to speak as an alumna. I love helping students because I understand how challenging it can be to arrive in a new country and settle in. Supporting others through that journey is deeply meaningful to me.
What is one thing about your home that it is famous for in India?
Varanasi (Banaras) is famous for its silk (Banarasi silk sarees), its spiritual heritage on the Ganges, and its paan. Jaipur, the Pink City, is celebrated for its royal forts and palaces, vibrant festivals, rich culture, traditional Jewelry and delicious cuisine.
