1st Asia Pacific Basava Convention
8,9 April 2023, Auckland, New Zealand
Inaugural Convention 2023 – A Historic Beginning
On the 8th and 9th of April 2023, the Mahatma Gandhi Centre in Auckland, New Zealand, hosted the Inaugural Convention of the Basava Samiti of Asia Pacific (BSAPAC). This momentous event marked the official launch of the international charity, fulfilling the organisation’s core objectives of ENGAGE, EDUCATE, EMPOWER, and ENLIGHTEN. Rooted in Guru Basava’s vision for global peace and harmony, the convention highlighted the charity’s mission to unite small communities across the Asia Pacific region under one banner, promoting Guru Basava’s philosophy.
Day 1: 8th April 2023
Opening Procession
The convention began with a grand Chapter Parade led by Master Nandish Karekal and Mrs. Kavita Srinivas, where representatives from various BSAPAC chapters proudly marched, showcasing their banners and dressed in 12th-century Sharana costumes. Chapters from Adelaide, Brisbane, Cairns, Perth, and the New Zealand Chapter participated, with additional representation from the Basava Samithi Bangalore (India). The parade, anchored by a vachana sung by Ms. Kshipra Swamy, was a remarkable sight, filled with pride and respect for Guru Basava’s teachings. The BSAPAC Song, symbolising the dedication of the Sharanas, played during the parade.
Inaugural Ceremony
The evening program, anchored by Mrs. Kumuda Setty, welcomed dignitaries and guests from various regions. A captivating performance of vachanas by renowned singer Mr. Balachandra Bhat and his team highlighted the values of Guru Basava through classical Hindustani music. This was followed by a traditional Powhiri and Karanga performed by the WHEIAO HAKA Group, welcoming delegates to New Zealand.
Key Speeches
Dr. Lingappa Kalburgi MNZM, Founding Chair, delivered the inaugural address, drawing upon his vast experiences in India, the UAE, and New Zealand to lay the foundation of the charity. His speech highlighted the excitement and vision of BSAPAC, acknowledging the delegates from India, Australia, and beyond. Mr. Aravind Jatti, President of Basava Samiti Bengaluru, India, as well as Mr. Narendra Bhana, President of the New Zealand Indian Central Association, and several other dignitaries graced the occasion.
Dr. Kalburgi also introduced key stakeholders, including Mrs. Leena Kalburgi, President of the New Zealand Chapter, and Mrs. Girija Karekal, Deputy Chair and Executive Director of BSAPAC, who was responsible for leading the inauguration ceremony. The chapter leaders and executive committee members from Australia and New Zealand were also recognised for their dedication to the charity’s mission.
From Legacy to a New Generation: The Formation of BSAPAC
Basava Samiti of Asia Pacific Ltd (BSAPAC) was born from a recognition that the Basava communities established across Australia and New Zealand over more than two decades were facing a significant generational challenge. While the pioneering generations had worked tirelessly to preserve and share the strength, inclusivity and transformative spirit of Guru Basava’s philosophy, many communities were experiencing stagnation, declining youth participation and difficulty sustaining engagement across generations. The original intent of the pioneers was at risk of being diluted by changing social circumstances and the expectations of a new generation.
In response, a public consultation and survey across Australia, New Zealand and Singapore was undertaken to understand the aspirations, concerns and expectations of the wider community and the government across multiple levels and jurisdictions, formed the BSAPAC as a robust Australian charity, providing a new platform for community participation, intergenerational engagement and the practical adoption of Guru Basava’s values. The intention was not simply to preserve an existing community structure, but to reimagine how the philosophy could remain relevant for future generations. BSAPAC was conceived as a platform to Engage, Educate, Empower and Enlighten. The breadth of this vision was demonstrated remarkably early. An Australian-established charity being formally inaugurated on foreign soil in New Zealand, a sister nation, was a significant expression of the intended geographical scope of BSAPAC. This cross-border milestone reflected the ambition to build a connected Asia-Pacific community rather than isolated local chapters. The long-term vision, with the potential to extend to 128 countries, reflects the belief that values of equality, service, inclusion and ethical living are not confined by geography and can continue to inspire generations across the world.
Inauguration Rituals
The event paid respects to the three nations – New Zealand, Australia, and India – by playing their national anthems. The symbolic lighting of the cauldron, designed to depict the 12th-century Anubhava Mantapa, was conducted by Minister Wood, marking the inauguration. As Kshipra Swamy sang the BSAPAC motto, the lamps were lit to honour Guru Basava, and a Vachana MahaSamputa was offered as part of the historic ceremony. BSAPAC’s motto ‘ಛಲಬ ೇಕು ಶರಣಂಗ ಪರಧನವನ ೊಲ ೆನ ಂಬ, ಛಲಬ ೇಕು ಶರಣಂಗ ಪರಸತಿಯನ ೊಲ ೆನ ಂಬ,..’ while the inauguration cauldron designed and built to depict the 12th century Anubhava Mantapa was light by Minister for Immigration, Transport, Workplace Relations and Safety, Auckland, Finance – Associate Minister.
Inauguration Report Release
The BSAPAC Inaugural Report, an 80-page comprehensive document, was unveiled by Minister Wood. It detailed the birth of the charity, its transition, key achievements, and financial statements, encapsulating BSAPAC’s journey thus far compiled by the architect of the Charity Mrs. Girija Karekal.
Day 2: 9th April 2023
Morning Meditation
The second day commenced with the Istalinga Meditation, a practice popularised by Guru Basava. The session was anchored by Ms. Apoorva and Chetana, who introduced the audience to the meditation techniques. Several vachanas were recited by participants, adding to the spiritual atmosphere of the morning. The program, led by younger members like Apoorva, Vihaan, Chetana, Arpita, and Saanvi, concluded with a shared breakfast.
Keynote and Panel Discussions
The first official speech of the day was delivered by Mrs. Leena Kalburgi, President of the New Zealand Chapter. This was followed by a keynote address by Mr. Aravind Jatti, President of Basava Samiti Bengaluru, who introduced the theme of the panel discussion, “Arive Guru – Self-Realisation is the True Teacher.” This panel, chaired by Mr. Jatti, included BSAPAC Board members and Chapter Presidents, offering deep insights into Guru Basava’s philosophy.
The Board Basava Samiti of Asia Pacific Ltd Hon Chair Dr Lingappa Kalburgi, MNZM, JP Hon Deputy Chair and Executive Director, Mrs. Girija Karekal, Mr. Aravind Jatti, President, Basava Samiti, Bengaluru, India Basava Samiti of Asia Pacific (NZ Chapter) Inc. President Mrs. Leena Kalburgi Basava Samiti of Asia Pacific Ltd, Adelaide Chapter President Mr. Shadakhsari Adavayyanamath from Adelaide Basava Samiti of Asia Pacific Ltd, Brisbane Chapter President Mrs. Shashikala Movnachar Basava Samiti of Asia Pacific Ltd, Mr. Mahalingappa Mahagaonkar, Founder of Shivarudra Trust, Kalburgi, India were present.
Afternoon Session and Cultural Programs
The afternoon session commenced with the Anubhava Ghosti and the second panel discussion, the program was introduced and anchored by little children. The multi-faith community leaders introduced themselves and their relevance of the Topic Transcending Knowledge with Ignorance Chinese Christians Ajit Singh Randhawa, Sikh Community Sushant Kadole, Jain Community Aadil Basha, Muslim Community Mr. Arvind Jatti, President Basava Samiti, Bangaluru. This panel discussion was followed by the Mr. Bhav Dhillon, Hon. Consul of India in Auckland address and he chaired the Community leaders honour program. Key community leaders honoured during this program are Mr Ajay Ravi, President, New Zealand Kannada Koota Inc. Mr. Garry Gupta, Chairperson, Migrant Careers Support Trust, Dr Primla Khar, President, Indian Association Manukau NZ, Mr. Vishal Rishi, Director, The Asian Netwok Inc. (TANI), Mrs. Roopa Suchdev, Chairperson Roopa aur Aap, Mr. Kalyan Rao Kasuganti, President Telangana Federation, Mr. Suneel Kuncha, President New Zealand Telugu Association, Mr. Dev Nadkarni, Centre for Indian Performing Arts, Mr. Ella Kumar, Chair, Puketapapa Local Board Health and Fitness Educator, Mr. Vai Ravindran, President Auckland Tamil Association, Mr.Manjunath B P, Basava Samiti of Asia Pacific (New Zealand) Inc. Mr. Venkat Raman, Editor, Indian Newslink, Mr. Yugal Parashar, Editor, The Indian News, Mr. Ravi Bajpai. Indian Weekender, and Mrs. Trupti Dev.
Evening Program and Closing Ceremony
The closing ceremony was a grand showcase of cultural talent from the local community, including members of the Kannada Koota. The event concluded with the presentation of the prestigious BSAPAC Jewel Awards, honouring individuals like Mr. Pramod Nagaraj (Perth), Mr. Linden May (Brisbane), Ms. Dan Wu (Adelaide), and Mrs. Dr. Danamma Zalaki (India), for their unwavering commitment to the charity. The BSAPAC Research Award was also presented to Dr. Avinash Kavi for his outstanding contribution to Sharana philosophy.
The evening concluded with the announcement of the next convention venue – Perth, Western Australia. The symbolic passing of the convention baton from Mrs. Leena Kalburgi to Mr. Nagarajappa Siddappa, President of the Perth Chapter, marked the beginning of preparations for the Second BSAPAC Convention in 2025.
This event brought together people from diverse ethnic backgrounds, including Koreans, Chinese, Kiwis, Indians, Estonians, and Maoris, uniting them in a shared purpose of promoting Basava’s philosophy. The inaugural convention set a solid foundation for Basava Samiti of Asia Pacific and heralded a new era of global peace and harmony.
Key Acknowledgements:
On this historic occasion, several key figures were honoured for their contributions. Special recognition was given to Mrs. Leena Kalaburgi, President of the New Zealand Chapter, along with Mrs. Usha Palakshappa, Advisor to the New Zealand Chapter, Mr. Rajkumar Swamy, Secretary, and Mr. Pradeep Kantharaju, alongside the entire Executive Committee of the Basava Samiti of Asia Pacific New Zealand Chapter Inc. for their dedicated efforts.
Acknowledgements were also extended to Mrs. Shashikala Movnachar, President of the Brisbane Chapter, Mr. Nagarajappa Siddappa from the Perth Chapter, Mr. Shadakshari Adavayyanamath, President of the Adelaide Chapter, and Mr. Rajashekhar Muddappa of the Cairns Chapter (in absentia).
Mr. Mahaling Mahagaonkar, stood behind the establishment of BSAPAC to provided the confidence, thought leadership and unwavering support needed to navigate challenges and adversity. As a trusted backbone and source of strength, he helped turn ideas into a sustainable organisation, guiding through difficult decisions and uncertain moments.
His contribution extended to shaping the Constitution and governance framework, with a vision designed not merely for today, but to stand the test of time.
Much of this support may have happened quietly, but its impact is deeply woven into the foundations, resilience and future of BSAPAC.
Join Us
Join us in our mission to promote Guru Basava’s teachings. Learn more about our upcoming 2025 Convention in Perth, Australia, and find out how you can get involved!