PREETI MAHESHWARI
The fragrance of incense, the gentle hum of sacred chants, and the sight of women draped in vibrant saris brought an unmistakable sense of home to the residence of Shalini Alok and Ashish Singh recently. Members of the Bihar Jharkhand Association of New Zealand (BJANZ) gathered to celebrate Hartalika Teej, a festival deeply rooted in devotion, tradition, and family memories.
Sacred Rituals and Devotion
The evening began with punditji Chandrabhan Badoniya reciting the Teej Katha, as women performed the rituals with grace and reverence. Their devotion created an atmosphere that seemed to transport everyone back to the courtyards and temples of Bihar and Jharkhand.
“It felt like we were back in India, sitting together with our friends, families, and neighbours,” shared participant Aditi Verma, her voice tinged with nostalgia.
A Reunion with Roots
For many, the event was more than a puja — it was an emotional reconnection with their roots. Traditional songs, shared laughter, and heartfelt prayers evoked cherished memories of family celebrations. The younger generation watched with curiosity and respect, experiencing first-hand the traditions they had only heard about from their parents.
Togetherness Beyond Borders
Once the rituals concluded, the community gathered to share food lovingly prepared as offerings. The meal became a celebration in itself, flavoured with nostalgia and warm conversation.
“These gatherings fill the gap of family back in India. Here, we become each other’s extended family,” said Kiran Singh, a BJANZ member.
Preserving Culture for the Future
Reflecting on the occasion, BJANZ President Amit Verma emphasised the significance of such gatherings:
“These events are really important to keep our culture and traditions alive in a foreign land. They allow us to pass on our values to the next generation while also creating a strong sense of community among us.”
A Festival That Feels Like Home
The Hartalika Teej celebration was not just an observance of rituals — it was a heartfelt reminder that, even thousands of miles away, traditions have the power to unite, comfort, and make any place feel like home.
