Culture, reflection and connection were the themes of the event.
The afternoon brought together students, staff and members of the wider Te Kunenga ki Pūrehuroa Massey University community for an event centred on culture, reflection and the connection between Aotearoa New Zealand and India.
The programme opened with a mihi and karakia led by Student Achievement Coach Jamie Hooper, acknowledging the place in which the celebration was held and setting a respectful and inclusive tone. The national anthem of New Zealand and India followed, reflecting the close ties between the two countries and the diversity of the university community.
In her keynote address, Provost Professor Giselle Byrnes spoke about the resilience and strength that comes from people coming together across cultures. She extended her warm wishes to those marking India’s Independence Day and encouraged everyone to enjoy the occasion and celebrate the values shared across communities and countries.
Associate Professor Sita Venkateswar reflected on the significance of Independence Day, acknowledging the challenges that have shaped India’s journey and the resilience that has enabled its people and communities to look towards progress and a better future.
The event also acknowledged the contribution of the Indian Association for Education, Employment and Culture to students at Massey. Professor Jaspreet Singh spoke about the Association’s work supporting students, strengthening community connections and creating opportunities for Indian students within the university.
For Indian students, the occasion provided an opportunity to reflect on the value of education and the opportunities available to them in New Zealand.
Second-year PhD student and Manaaki Scholar Srinivas Chaganti spoke about the privilege of studying at Massey and expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to pursue higher education in New Zealand. He reflected on the role education can play in shaping the future of students and their communities.
“Indian students are not only at Massey to receive an education; we are also here to participate, contribute and become part of the wider university community. Celebrating Independence Day gave us an opportunity to share our heritage, build friendships across cultures and recognise the contributions Indian students make through research, leadership and community activities. For me as a Manaaki scholar, it is about being proud of where we come from while contributing positively to Massey and Aotearoa New Zealand.”
His remarks highlight how university life can extend beyond academic achievement, helping students grow personally, contribute to their communities and build connections across cultures.
Student leadership was another important part of the event, with Ravinal Prakash and Pooja hosting the programme and guiding the audience through the afternoon’s activities.
The celebration offered the Massey community an opportunity to learn more about India’s history and culture while recognising the achievements and contributions of Indian students and community members.
It also reflected the diversity of Massey’s international community, where people from different cultural backgrounds come together to share traditions, experiences and aspirations.
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