April 28 has become a memorable day for all the amateur performers and choreographers of Punjabi Cultural Association in Auckland, NZ. The Vasiakhi Celebration organized with the blessings of S. Prithpal Singh Basra and S. Manjit Singh, President, Punjabi Cultural Association, concluded with success.
The main objective of the Association is to promote children and allow them to remain close to their roots, by preserving their traditions and culture. The programme began with “Deh Siva Var Mohe Ihe” (choreographed by Iqbal Kaur Ahluwalia, Cultural Co-ordinator) and was then followed by Dhamaka of Dhol, Bhangras, Punjabi Songs dances, and Giddha.
Parminder Singh and Nimi Bedi were the major Masters of the Ceremony but Gurpreet, Iqbal Ahluwalia, Maninder, Raman, Navtej and Teji were well appreciated and the “Boli Utte Boli”was appreciated for the wonderful choreography by Jaspreet Ahluwalia.
“Mahia Main Long…..” was another dance by young boys and girls that won lot of applause. The mothers and daughters group of Pbi.Cultural Association did beautiful dance as usual.
The most memorable moments included words of praise by the Chief Guest Mr. Mark Ball (Mayor) and Dr Paul Hutchinson (MP), who were garlanded by baby Mankiran, Jot and Preeti. Raj Bedi, Vice President, Punjabi Cultural Association, conveyed thanks to the community as a whole on behalf of all the members of the association.
The Gala performance by a Samoan and Niuean group remained the highlight because it showed how well Punjabi’s integrate into the multicultural environment and how keen Punajbis are to welcome other communities into their celebrations.
Pher Ho Jai Balle Balle!
Report by:- Nimi Bedi Pix by:- Ranjit Singh Ahluwalia
