Raksha Bandhan

Celebrate the Eternal Bond: Raksha Bandhan

This year, join us in celebrating Raksha Bandhan, a cherished Hindu festival that beautifully honours the sacred bond between brothers and sisters. More than just a tradition, Raksha Bandhan—which translates to 'the bond of protection'—is a heartfelt expression of love, respect, and the promise of lifelong care.

The Meaning Behind the Thread

At the heart of the festival is the rakhi, a decorative thread or bracelet that a sister ties around her brother’s right wrist. As she performs this sacred act, she offers prayers for his long life, prosperity, and well-being. In return, the brother accepts his duty to protect his sister from all harm and pledges to support her through life’s journey. This beautiful exchange of a simple thread for a profound promise is a central pillar of Hindu culture, symbolising the strength and purity of this unique relationship.

Join Our Community Celebration!

HOTA Forum NZ warmly invites you to a special Raksha Bandhan Community Celebration. It's an afternoon of love, unity, and tradition, perfect for the whole whānau.

Event Details

• Date: Saturday, 12th September 2026
• Time: 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm
• Venue: Swaminarayan Complex, 10-12 Wentworth Avenue, Papatoetoe, Auckland 2025
• Contact: Lakshmi Prasad – 021 0541 153 ; info@hcnz.org

The event will be a wonderful opportunity to experience the festival's timeless traditions. Our celebration will be presided over by several dignitaries, and we are also honoured to have representatives from NZ Police, NZ Fire, and St John joining us.

What to Expect:

• Traditional Rakhi Tying Ceremony: Participate in the sacred ritual that lies at the heart of the festival.
• Cultural Performances & Music: Be enchanted by vibrant performances that showcase our rich heritage.
• Food Stalls: Enjoy food from various food stalls spread across several cuisines.

Bring your family and friends for a heartwarming celebration of togetherness! It's an excellent chance to learn about Hindu traditions and connect with our community in a meaningful way.

Key Attractions

• Folk & Classical Dance Performances
• Various forms of Singing and Cultural Shows
• Food Stalls

Organisers & Hosts

• Presented by: HOTA (Hindu Organisations, Temples and Associations Forum NZ) & Hindu Council of New Zealand
• Organised/Hosted by: International Swaminarayan Satsang Organisation New Zealand (ISSO NZ)