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'This is not India': Locals perform Haka in objection over Sikh kirtan in New Zealand | Watch

Controversy broke out in South Auckland after a Nagar Kirtan, a sacred Sikh religious procession, was briefly halted by local protesters who blocked the route and performed the Haka. The incident drew strong condemnation from Shiromani Akali Dal president Sukhbir Singh Badal, who appealed to External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar to raise the matter with the New Zealand government and ensure the safety and religious rights of the Indian diaspora.

The incident occurred during a Nagar Kirtan, a sacred Sikh procession marked by the singing of hymns from the Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji
The incident occurred during a Nagar Kirtan, a sacred Sikh procession marked by the singing of hymns from the Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji Credit:X
| Updated on: Dec 21, 2025 | 05:27 PM

New Delhi: Controversy erupted after a Sikh religious procession in South Auckland, New Zealand, was disrupted by local protesters who blocked its route, performed the Haka dance, and held placards on Saturday. The protesters reportedly claimed that “this is New Zealand and not India,” thereby halting the procession.

The incident occurred during a Nagar Kirtan, a sacred Sikh procession marked by the singing of hymns from the Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji. The religious ritual symbolises peace, unity, and selfless service. The procession had begun from Gurdwara Nanaksar Thath Ishar Darbar in Manurewa and was on its return journey when it was stopped.

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Akali Dal leader strongly condemns the disruption

Reacting strongly, Shiromani Akali Dal President Sukhbir Singh Badal shared a post on X condemning what he termed an unnecessary disruption of the Nagar Kirtan. “The event is a sacred Sikh tradition—a joyous religious parade involving the singing of hymns from the Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji, promoting devotion, unity, and the sharing of blessings with all humanity,” Badal said.

“Such acts of intimidation threaten religious freedom and the spirit of universal brotherhood,” he added.

Appeal to EAM to raise issue with New Zealand Government

Badal also appealed to External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar to raise the matter with the New Zealand government. He urged authorities to ensure the safety and religious rights of the Indian diaspora and to prevent similar incidents in the future.

According to reports, around 30 to 35 local youths halted the route of the procession and performed the Haka, a traditional Māori dance historically associated with war rituals and powerful physical movements. Following the disturbance, police reached the spot and intervened to control the situation. After discussions, the protesters moved aside, allowing the Nagar Kirtan to continue and return safely to the gurdwara. Members of the local Sikh leadership were present throughout the incident.

The episode has triggered debate and concern among diaspora communities over security and the freedom to practise their faith abroad.

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