About Us
Welcome to the Hindu Organisations, Temples, and Associations (HOTA) Forum New Zealand, a vibrant platform dedicated to fostering unity, collaboration, and progress among Hindu organisations, temples, and associations in New Zealand. The HOTA Forum NZ is committed to bringing together Hindu groups, institutions, and sampradayas collectively working towards the Hindu resurgence.
The HOTA Forum NZ strives to support Hindu organisations by offering a shared platform for dialogue, provide crucial resource and knowledge sharing, encouraging networking and collective action to foster pride in our shared civilisational heritage.
In New Zealand, many Hindu organisations, temples, and associations are dedicated to revitalising Hindu culture, knowledge systems, art forms, sciences and contributing to the local community whilst showcasing Hindu Dharma's diversity grounded in our inherent shared unity. However, historically, challenges have arisen due to disorganisation within Hindu society.
The HOTA Forum NZ encourages individual growth for each Hindu organisation, temple, or association while fostering collaborative efforts. The HOTA Forum NZ provides the platform for all Hindu groups to come together, work together and grow together.
Vision:
“Sanghe Sakti Kaliyuge” (Organisation is Strength)
Mission:
The HOTA Forum NZ is committed to promoting a deeper understanding and appreciation of Hindu heritage, values, culture, and traditions while nurturing a sense of community among its members. Our primary objectives include:
Facilitating Collaboration: We foster collaboration among various Hindu organisations, temples, and associations to synergize efforts and address common challenges.
Resource Sharing: The HOTA Forum NZ serves as a repository of information, resources, and best practices, empowering member organisations with valuable insights and tools for effective community engagement.
Cultural Preservation: We are dedicated to preserving and promoting Hindu cultural practices, rituals, languages, knowledge systems, sciences, and traditions for the benefit of present and future generations.
Advocacy and Awareness: The HOTA Forum NZ advocates for the interests of the Hindu community, raises awareness about issues impacting Hindus globally, and works towards fostering inclusivity and understanding.
Way Forward:
With a strong foundation firmly established, the HOTA Forum NZ is committed to enhancing and strengthening networking connections within the Hindu community. This includes temples, organisations, and associations that celebrate the achievements of the Hindu community.
Empowering Language-Based Organisations: To maximise their impact, Hindu organisations and temples should actively engage with the community, particularly focusing on language-based organisations. This strategy fosters ongoing connections with both children and parents.
Expanding Raksha Bandhan Celebrations Across Cities: After a successful celebration in Auckland and Wellington, the tradition of Raksha Bandhan should be extended to other cities such as Hamilton, Rotorua, Palmerston North, Christchurch, and Dunedin. This provides an opportunity for Hindu organisations, temples, and associations within each city to collaborate and join forces.
Investing in Early Education Opportunities: Recognising the profound influence of early education, there should be a dedicated effort to instil Hindu values in children and youth through tailored programs. If feasible, the establishment of early childcare centres by Hindu Trust, with support from both the government and the community, can be considered in various cities.
National Conferences for Promoting Hindu Impact and Influence: The HOTA Forum NZ will plan and host regular conferences in major cities in New Zealand to highlight Hindu impact and influence, encompassing disciplines like Yoga, Ayurveda, and Meditation. The aim is to engage with schools, parents, students, regional and national governments and explore avenues for integrating Yoga into school curricula, healthcare facilities, and even correctional institutions.
Ensuring Accurate Representation in Academia and Media: The HOTA Forum NZ must remain vigilant in preventing misrepresentation, misinformation, and disinformation about Hindus in academia as well as mainstream media. This ensures that the rich heritage, traditions, and contributions of the Hindu community are accurately portrayed, and to prevent the vilification of the Hindu society due to its Hindu identity.
Forum Features:
Our interactive platform offers a range of features tailored to meet the needs of our diverse membership:
Discussion Forums: Engage in meaningful discussions, share experiences, highlight existing and upcoming challenges, and seek advice on various topics related to Hindu organisations, temple management, community events, and more.
Resource Library: Access a comprehensive repository of articles, guides, and educational materials covering religious practices, cultural heritage, organisational management, and community development.
Event Calendar: Stay updated on upcoming Hindu festivals, cultural events, workshops, seminars, and conferences hosted by member organisations in New Zealand.
Networking Opportunities: Connect with leaders, volunteers, and members of Hindu associations countrywide, fostering collaborations and partnerships for mutual growth and development.
