The newly elected Prime Minister of New Zealand, Chris Hipkins, was welcomed by the Hindu community in New Zealand at a reception organized at the BAPS Hindu Temple in Tait, Lower Hutt, Wellington.
The leader was praised and congratulated for being appointed to the role as BAPS children presented a kumkum chandlo, nadachdadi, and garland to him as part of a customary Hindu welcome and honour. As a sign of peace and unity, the kids also waved the flags of India and New Zealand.
In addition to receiving a personal audience with Shri Akshar-Purshottam Maharaj, the prime minister also learned about Mahant Swami Maharaj, the BAPS's present spiritual guide. All those present at the gathering paid tribute to Cyclone Gabrielle's victims and prayed for all who had been impacted by the catastrophe.
Addressing the gathering, Prime Minister Hipkins said, "I've been the prime minister for just over eight weeks now. During that time, we have faced some extraordinary challenges. And what we have seen is communities rallying around and supporting each other. So, I acknowledge the contribution that BAPS has made in that regard in supporting our communities, making sure that they are fed, making sure that they get what they need to get through very challenging times. I am so proud to live in a country where people are free and able to celebrate who they are, to worship as they choose to in a way that is free, where they are not discriminated against."
In addition, Hipkins recalled his attendance at the Shilayanas Vidhi (ground-breaking ceremony) of the new BAPS Temple, which is being constructed in Wellington's Lower Hutt neighbourhood of Naenae, and expressed his satisfaction at the development.
