On December 21, 2024, the world came together to celebrate the first-ever World Meditation Day, recognized by the United Nations as a reminder of the healing power of meditation and its role in enhancing both individual and collective well-being.
At the Hindu Heritage Centre, located in Rotorua, New Zealand, the celebrations drew over 30 participants, reflecting the growing interest and commitment to mindfulness practices, even amid the hustle and bustle of the pre-Christmas season. Recognized globally, World Meditation Day is aimed at fostering inner peace through the ancient practice of meditation.
The event unfolded with a traditional lamp-lighting ceremony, attended by notable figures such as Shri Vijay Kumar Patel, who represented BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir, and meditation teacher Dr Barbara Hock. Each guest was ceremoniously honored with tilak and orange scarves by children from Hindu scripture classes, who enlivened the atmosphere with recitations of Vedic mantras and shlokas.
“Meditation is an ancient practice deeply rooted in Dharmic traditions,” Shri Vijay Kumar Patel stated during his opening remarks. “It fosters personal well-being and builds resilient communities. Amid today’s fast-paced world, pausing for self-reflection reduces stress and cultivates emotional balance.”
Nilamani Wright, founder of SoulShine Yoga, engaged participants with her interactive session, where she explored the deep connections between yoga, meditation, and holistic health. “Meditation is like watering the roots of a tree,” she explained, illustrating how nurturing the inner self can lead to flourishing outer lives.
Following Wright's session, Dr Barbara Hock led the attendees through guided meditation, drawing from her extensive experience of over 25 years. Her soothing voice echoed the sentiments of many meditators when she remarked, “Modern life fills our minds with noise. Meditation isn’t about silencing the mind instantly but learning to slow our thoughts, one breath at a time.” This deep, calming exercise left participants feeling grounded and revitalized.
The event also marked significant community advancements, as Dr Guna Magesan, President of the Hindu Council of New Zealand, announced two major initiatives. Firstly, he shared the good news of funding received from the Rotorua Lakes Council's Community Matching Fund, which will allow for the creation of a community garden at the Hindu Heritage Centre. “This garden will serve as not only a space for food cultivation but also for reflection, healing, and connection,” said Dr Magesan, inviting everyone to join future initiations to help cultivate the garden.
Secondly, Magesan announced the appointment of Nilamani Wright as the national coordinator for the 2025 Health for Humanity Yogathon, underscoring her dedication to promoting health through yoga and the momentum generated from the day's event.
Across the world, organizations championing yoga and meditation marked World Meditation Day with various events. For example, organizations such as the Nepal Maharishi Vedic Foundation and Jeevan Vigyan planned mass meditation sessions at multiple centers, encouraging large crowds to participate.
Amongst the noteworthy occurrences, Nagpur-based startup Habuild set a world record by gathering 287,711 participants for the largest virtual meditation session, highlighting how meditation has become integral to wellness for many. Saurabh Bothra, CEO of Habuild, expressed gratitude for the overwhelming participation during this historic achievement, encouraging all to integrate meditation as part of their daily routine.
Back at the Hindu Heritage Centre, Varsha Kaki served as the event's master of ceremonies, guiding attendees through the proceedings with grace and mindfulness. Dr Julia Anne, the center's manager and an award-winning scientist, remarked during the vote of thanks, “Today’s gathering reminds us how interconnected mindfulness and community are. By coming together, we not only nourish our spirits but strengthen our collective bonds.”
The success of Rotorua’s inaugural World Meditation Day has ignited interest, paving the way for future events aimed at enhancing community ties through shared mindfulness experiences. The Hindu Heritage Centre plans to continue fostering such gatherings, emphasizing the importance of meditation as both personal growth and communal well-being.
