The Sivananda Sunlit Path Programme was designed by Pujya Swami Sahajananda in 2006 to assist youth suffering with problems of drug and alcohol addiction, and those suffering with depression and contemplating suicide. To date, numerous Sunlit Path Programmes have been held throughout the province. On Wednesday, 27 March, a Programme was held at Durwest Primary School, Reservoir Hills. It was attended by 118 learners from Reservoir Hills Secondary, Dr. A.D. Lazarus Secondary and Sea Cow Lake Secondary.

The programme included presentations on the value of prayer; harmful effects of drugs, alcohol, TV and gambling; the law of cause and effect; celibacy; depression: it causes and how to overcome it and the disastrous effects of suicide, etc. After each presentation, participants engaged in group discussions on the topic. Discussions were guided by trained facilitators, and learners from different groups reported back on proceedings in their group.

During a group discussion on “Depression and Suicide” one learner revealed that that he contemplated suicide when he found his health condition unbearable. His faith in God enabled him to persevere, and ultimately he was cured.

At the end of the session on Prayer, the Programme Director led the learners into a period of silent prayer. There was absolute silence during the three minutes. Saints say that the benefits of collective prayer and the spiritual energy it radiates is far greater than individual prayer. This was definitely experienced by all during this short period of silent prayer.

After listening to the entire presentation, 96 learners were convinced that they should sign a pledge to abstain from alcohol, smoking, gambling and drugs & intoxicants. They will avoid viewing undesirable scenes on television and adopt a wholesome diet and healthy lifestyle. Furthermore, they will observe celibacy until marriage, keep away from evil company, maintain a positive attitude at all times and conduct daily prayer. These young heroes and heroines have become part of the prestigious Sunlit Club. They will each receive a certificate which will be presented at the school morning assembly, as well as a free supply of our quarterly journal, Sunlit Path, which contains useful articles to help them keep up their resolves and lead a virtuous life.

The organisers were greatly encouraged by the articulate manner in which learners expressed what they learnt from the programme. The following are some of the lofty thoughts expressed by learners during the feedback session at the end of the programme:

The Society expresses its sincere thanks to Durwest Primary School for graciously allowing us the use of their school hall, and for assisting in various ways to make the function a success. Our gratitude also goes out to the officials and learners of the three schools that participated in the programme. The next Sunlit Path Programme will take place in the Stanger District on Friday, 10 May 2013.

PICTURES: SIVANANDA SUNLIT PATH PROGRAMME IN RESERVOIR HILLS
Programme in progress	Programme in progress
Feedback from Group Discussions	Feedback from Group Discussions
Feedback from Group Discussions	Learners from Reservoir Hills Secondary that have joined the Sunlit Club, with Educators
Learners from Sea Cow Lake Secondary that have joined the Sunlit Club, with Educators	Learners from Dr. A.D. Lazarus Secondary School that have joined the Sunlit Club, with Educators

Ganga Arati at Bhagirathi

About 280 devotees attended the first Yoga Retreat for 2013, which was held at the Sivananda International Cultural Centre on Saturday, 23 March from 6am to 7.30pm. The Yoga Retreat, which is in essence an extended Yoga Camp, gives devotees an opportunity to shut out the outside world for an entire day and immerse themselves in spiritual practices, lessons, sports, etc. and imbibe the holy and peaceful vibrations that pervade the Ashram campus.

The Retreat commenced at 6am with Havan, amidst the cascading, holy waters of Ganga Mata in Bhagirathi. This was followed by invocation, chanting and meditation, as well as a presentation on readings from the Peace Series accompanied by soothing & melodious chanting of Mantras set to morning Ragas.

We reproduce one message from the pages of the Peace Series:
“The power of prayer is truly inestimable. Its glory is ineffable. Sincere devotees only realise its usefulness and splendour. Pray with reverence and faith and with a heart filled with devotion. Do not argue about the efficacy of prayer. This will delude you. There is no arguing in such holy matters. Have faith.”

After Ganga Arati, breakfast, and a session of Likhit Japa and chanting while walking around Guru Kripa, Spiritual Darlings from Grades 0–6 enjoyed a fruitful discussion on Hindu scriptures. Youth and adults attended a valuable and informative presentation exploring the role of women in the Ramayana, and how we can—even in this day and age—follow the examples of the exemplary lives and character of some of the heroines of the Ramayana, like Mother Sita, Kaushalya (the mother of Rama), Urmila (the consort of Lakshmana), etc. On the other hand, the example of Kaikeyi was cited—being an innately good person—she nevertheless allowed herself to be influenced by the evil-minded Mantara, and performed actions that led to much pain and suffering for others and herself. We were warned that even in this present age, there are many Mantaras lurking, the most dangerous being in our own mind!

In a parallel session that followed, the youth made their way to the stadium for a session of organised sports that included soccer, volleyball and netball. Adults attended a workshop on how to achieve “Harmony in the Workplace”. Regarding disputes and differences of opinions commonly experienced in the workplace, presenters looked at a few legal aspects and then settled on solutions based on the teachings of our Divine Master, Sri Swami Sivananda and Pujya Swami Sahajananda. Some of these points were:

Presenters advised that challenges should be met with courage, bringing out the truth. However, in so doing, a spiritual approach as highlighted above must be used.

Evening Satsang at Yamuna

After lunch, a spiritual quiz, “30 seconds”, kept participants and devotees entertained whilst at the same time being informative. Spiritual Darlings and adults enjoyed the healthy competition.

Chanting of the Sri Hanuman Chalisa eleven times thereafter added to the spiritual atmosphere of the retreat. The game Charades (role playing) was highly successful and was designed to help participants to understand the other person’s point of view, to have sympathy for others and to introspect.

After tea, one hundred and twenty participants went on the invigorating nature hike through the sugar-cane fields behind the Ashram. This was followed by novelty sports at the stadium and included items such as the walking race, three-legged race, relay and everyone’s favourite—tug of war.

After Ganga Arati and supper Prasad, an open-air Satsang was conducted at the Yamuna area, during which guest artist, Sri Abedanand Bejan and troupe, rendered melodious Bhajans and Kirtans. All in all, the Yoga Retreat was a day well spent, providing adequate opportunities to charge one’s spiritual batteries to meet the challenges of life. The next Retreat is scheduled for 23 November.

We offer our gratitude to Sri Gurudev and Pujya Swamiji for providing us with a spiritual and enjoyable day.

Graduates of Computer Course, "Microsoft Office Specialist"

The computer training course, “Microsoft Office Specialist”, offered at the Sivananda Computer Training Centre, Sivananda Sunlit Path Centre in Chatsworth, forms part of the Society’s programme to uplift and empower the poor and unemployed in the community by providing computer skills required for most jobs on the market. It runs from Monday to Friday, 8.30am – 2.30pm for approximately two months.

The first batch of learners to successfully complete the course were presented with their internationally recognised Microsoft certificates in Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook and PowerPoint on Friday, 15 March 2013.

At the graduation ceremony, Guest of Honour, Prof. Kantilal Bhowan, congratulated both teachers and learners for this milestone achievement. He also advised the learners that whilst it is important to be successful in the material world, it is also important to lead a balanced life, and an important part of that balance is including God in your life. He told the young learners that when they enter the working environment, they should perform their work as worship of God, and the reward for such a meticulous attitude towards work will bear fruit of its own accord.

Speaking on behalf of the nine graduates, Symone Perumal thanked the Divine Life Society for providing them with the opportunity participate in the course, and for all the assistance and training they received, which enabled them to successfully complete the course.

The Society congratulates the graduates on their achievements. May their future endeavors be marked with success, and may the blessings of God be upon them always!

Lord Siva

Mahasivaratri was observed at all Divine Life Society of S.A. Ashrams on Sunday, 10 March from 5.30pm to 5am. There were large gathering at our Centres. Mahasivaratri was a veritable spiritual feast comprising a variety of presentations and devotional offerings to Lord Siva on this sacred night.

Destruction and creation are two mutually supporting forces necessary to ensure survival and evolution. Lord Siva is recognised as the Destroyer or Dissolver in the Hindu Trinity. Who better to assist us in this battle to free ourselves from the cycles of life and death than Lord Siva Himself and on this most auspicious "great night of Siva"! Mahasivaratri is observed in honour of Lord Shiva and commemorates the day He was married to Mother Parvati.

In this Age, Nama-Smarana or singing the hymns is the easiest, quickest, safest and surest way to reach God and attain Immortality and perennial joy. The name of Lord Siva has the power of burning the sins, Samskaras and Vasanas and bestowing eternal bliss and everlasting peace on those who repeat the Name of the Lord. Our Divine Master, Sri Swami Sivananda assures us, "He who utters the Names of Siva during Mahashivaratri, with perfect devotion and concentration, is freed from all sins. He reaches the abode of Siva and lives there happily. He is liberated from the wheel of births and deaths."

At Sivanandashram, Reservoir Hills, devotees were treated to a delightful presentation by our Spiritual Darlings from the Sivananda Academy. The little ones not only rendered Kirtans with their own musicians, but enlightened the audience on the fine details that appear on a typical picture of Lord Siva. No Sivaratri can be complete without an offering of devotional dance to the Cosmic Dancer Nadaraja. Highly acclaimed and talented guest artists, including Smt Veena Lutchman, Sri Tansen Nepaul, Smt Umita Kalyan, Sri Vishen Kemraj,  Smt Vijayluxmi Balakrishna, Sri Roanna Bala and Smt Viloshani Manikam, rendered soul elevating cultural items.  Featured also were a play by our dynamic Youth Boys, audio play readings, videos from the Shiv Mahapuran and inspiring readings.

In Kali Yuga, Ganga is regarded as the most sacred place. The Devi Bhagavata says: "He who utters the name of Ganga even from hundreds of miles afar, is freed from sins and attains the abode of Lord Hari". Hindus believe that all their sins are washed away if they take a dip in the sacred waters of the Ganga.  The Maha Kumbha Mela came to a close on Sunday, 10 March in Allahabad. It is a spiritual event unparalleled in the world for its attraction of millions of devotees of Mother Ganga. Swami Sivananda says, "To sit for a few minutes on a block of stone by the side of the Ganga, is a blessing." We at Divine Life Society of S.A. were indeed doubly blessed to enjoy the privilege of being able to sit on the banks of the Ganga (at Ganga Rani) and observe Mahashivaratri. Given the close association between Mother Ganga whose torrential descent to Earth was mercifully checked by the matted locks of Lord Siva, there must indeed be a deep occult spiritual significance to the confluence of these two great spiritual events on 10 March. Devotees certainly took advantage of enjoying the dual benefit of the Grace of Lord Siva as well as the purificatory waters of Ganga in purging themselves and engaging in Sadhana on Mahasivaratri.

In Pujya Swamiji’s audio message, Pujya Swamiji read the account of an American woman, Sharon Brown, whose amazing experience exemplified the power of the Om Namasivaya Mantyra. When she was informed that she had plastic-anaemia, a disease that attacks the bone marrow, she sought Divine help and was advised by a devotee of Swami Muktananda to chant the Om Namasivaya Mantra. On simply hearing the Mantra even once, Sharon Brown experienced extraordinary exhilaration. The Mantra and the world appeared as one. At one point she felt that was cancer came to her as a blessing so as to bring her into contact with the Mantra. Through the chanting of the Om Namasivaya Mantra, she experienced great peace during the illness as well during the operation that was performed on her.

The large gatherings at our Ashrams for this all-night vigil dedicated to the remembrance of Lord Siva was spiritually uplifting, with many devotees staying for the entire night. We pray that the blessings of Lord Siva be upon all during this auspicious period!

Mother Ganga

Divine Life Society of South Africa observed the Kumbha Mela on Sunday, 3 March 2013 at Sivananda International Cultural Centre, La Mercy.

Click here to view the report and pictures of this most auspicious occasion >>

Sri Swami Sahajananda

This auspicious event was held on Friday, 1 March at Sivanandashram Reservoir Hills. Regular readers of our website will know that it was on this day in 2007 that an “unusual power of our Divine Master” entered into Pujya Swami Sahajananda.

About this auspicious day, Pujya Swamiji wrote:

“I myself had the Grace of our Divine Master when an unusual power of his descended in me. It happened on 1st March this year. When the power descended there was a little disturbance in the beginning but within a few days it settled down. Now there is no change in the descent of the power. I could not believe that the Master would grant me such Divine Grace, a Grace that I do not deserve. If devotees saw my attitude some five years ago and my attitude now, they would be quite surprised that such a tremendous change could take place.”

At the Yoga Camp on 15 March 1983, Pujya Swamiji said, “Basically our entire spiritual life boils down to a question of only one word, and that is faith. If that is there, then a person sails through it. Sooner or later he comes out very well. If that is not there, a million years of reading and studying and meditation is not going to help us at all. It is faith and devotion and obedience, they are the keynotes. Why should God give this precious knowledge to people who are just going to ask for it? To still the mind and to quieten the mind—is that a plaything that can be done in a day or two? Is it just going to be given by someone else? We must think about it. No one else can control your mind. We’ve got to do it ourselves. We can go to the saints and we can get the blessings of the saints; we can get strength from them; we can get guidance. If the mind is receptive you can get guidance from any source. You’ll find at every step God is taking care of you, protecting you, guiding you. You can go through whatever trials you have very safely.”

In the audio message on that night, Pujya Swamiji said, “If you do your duty properly, you don’t have to ask God for anything. It will come by itself. So you have to put your will to what you do. If you ask Gurudev for spiritual progress, he will give you....When I first entered the spiritual path, I think that the demons must have shouted with joy. To think that I of all people was entering the spiritual path, because my condition was such! I joined the path only because I wanted to get rid of my bad habits. Perhaps someone else also smiled in return and that was Gurudev himself. He wanted to demonstrate that there is a great power called the Guru’s Grace and that Grace can work marvels and that is what I have seen in my life.

“So if I place before you whatever I want to say, it is the path of Divine Grace. It means that if you do your duty properly, whether it is your family duty or your duty in the Ashram, you don’t have to ask God for anything. It will come by itself. For example, a Guru is like a father to us, he is more than a father. You don’t have to ask him for anything. Whatever he inherits, will come to us. But, we have to make ourselves worthy of that Grace and that Grace can work marvels. All that you have to do is to do your duty faithfully, then marvellous things can come to us.

“We have to remember that our past Karma has to work out. Our past Karma is a stumbling block. Our past samskaras will force us to do what we don’t want to do. But if we adhere to our duty, then marvellous things can come to us. When it will come, how it will come, it what manner it will come, in what proportion it will come, we cannot say! It is the safest and easiest path because it is a path of trust, it is a path of confidence, it is a path of childlike awareness and constant trust in the Master that brings the results.

“If I have not experienced Divine Grace then I will have no right to talk to you about it. It is better to speak from your own experience than to quote from the books. That there is such a thing as Divine Grace, we know. Now I am not referring to our external success, like the many schools we have built. Anyone can do that! And, it is not difficult to get money. It is not difficult to build an Ashram. It is not difficult to print books. But it is very difficult to change your nature. What is important in our life is the transformation.

“I can remember that it took 23 years for the first light to dawn—23 years when the band around my chest loosened a little bit and I could breathe a little bit freely. Another 6 years went by when the breathing became freer; another three years when I felt that I was fairly free. And all came without my asking! Nothing changed externally. No situation changed. In fact it became worse. But, what Gurudev gave two months ago surpasses all that he had given previously.

“When I first found Gurudev and he rescued me from that life, to a life of Sadhana, I made one resolution and I said that in this birth, I will try to serve him with all my heart and soul in repayment. I felt that I should express my gratitude to him. And that is what I am trying to do. Gurudev does not expect us to do spectacular things. We have not done anything spectacular at all. I asked Gurudev how and why did he give me this knowledge. Am I worthy of it? What have I done? And I found that there is nothing spectacular that I have done. Nothing that could be called great! But I felt that whatever I did, I did with all my heart and soul. I thought of the books and I said, “Gurudev, this is all that I have given you.” I didn’t even print 50 or 100 books. All that was printed was about thirty books. But in those 30 books went every drop of my blood, every fibre of my being. My concentration went into that. So perhaps, that is what made Gurudev grant me.

“So like that, I have no fear of what is going to happen in the future. When the Master solves a problem, he makes a thorough job of it. He solves it once and for all.”

Sri Swami Sahajananda

Pujya Swami Sahajananda’s 5th Mahasamadhi Anniversary was observed on Monday, 10 December at Sivanandashram, Reservoir Hills. It was on this sacred day 5 years ago that Pujya Swamiji cast aside his mortal coil and merged with the Divine. It was a day filled with fond remembrance of Pujya Swamiji, an ideal disciple of the Divine Master, Sri Swami Sivananda, who instructed him to open a branch of Divine Life Society in this country in 1949. Since then until his Mahasamadhi in 2007, Pujya Swamiji utilised every fiber of his being in promoting the Master’s mission in this country. Thousands were transformed by the wave of spirituality that emanated from the Ashram, where Pujya Swamiji worked tirelessly to publish the Master’s books and distribute them widely. Pujya Swamiji’s compassion transcended all barriers, and monumental work was also done for the upliftment of the underprivileged Africans in this country.

The day commenced with a morning session comprising Ganga Arati, Invocation and Darshan at Sahaja Kutir and Pujya Swamiji’s sacred room. Thereafter, Akhanda chanting continued until 4pm. In the evening, about 700 devotees attended Satsang to pay obeisance to Pujya Swamiji. Chief Guest of Honour was H.H. Sri Swami Padmanabhananda, General Secretary of Divine Life Society, Rishikesh. In his address, Swami Padmanabhananda extolled the work done by Pujya Swamiji, and also spoke on the importance of following the teachings of the Guru. Swami Padmanabhananda officially released our latest publication, Path of Divine Grace, Volume 3, which is a compilation of messages and lectures delivered by Pujya Swami Sahajananda from 1983 - 1993.

Pujya Swamiji’s Mahasamadhi Anniversary according to the Sanskrit calendar was observed on Friday, 14 December at Sivanandashram, Reservoir Hills. The highlight of Satsang was a well-enacted play by the youth boys capturing some of the day-to-day activities of Pujya Swamiji. The play, which left devotees deeply moved, brought back vivid memories of Pujya Swamiji and his simple, practical instructions for coping with the problems of daily life.

During this period, 1 500 grocery hampers were distributed to indigent families in memory of Pujya Swamiji at Sivananda International Cultural Centre, La Mercy, as well as by the various branches of the Society throughout the province and in Gauteng.

We wish to offer our eternal gratitude to our Divine Master and Pujya Swamiji for the countless spiritual gifts bestowed upon devotees in this country. May their Grace and blessings be upon all!

PICTURES: PUJYA SWAMIJI'S 5TH MAHASAMADHI ANNIVERSARY
Shrine at Satsang	Ganga Arati
Ganga Arati	Song of Salutations
Official Welcome: Sri Swami Padmanabhananda	Address by Sri Swami Padmanabhananda
Official Release: "Path of Divine Grace, Vol. 3"	Satsang in Progress
Satsang in Progress	Satsang in Progress
Poor Feeding at SICC	Poor Feeding at SICC
Poor Feeding at SICC	Poor Feeding at SICC
Poor Feeding at SICC	Poor Feeding at SICC

Priceless Jewels: Sri Swami Sivananda's Letters to an Ideal Disciple

As an offering to our Divine Master, Sri Swami Sivananda on the occasion of his 125th Birth Anniversary Celebrations from 7-9 September 2012, the Society released its latest and most prestigious publication entitled, “Priceless Jewels”.

The first of its kind published by the Society, “Priceless Jewels” is a coffee-table book containing the actual letters written by the Divine Master to Pujya Swami Sahajananda. Many are hand written by the Master, and Pujya Swamiji himself referred to the letters as “Priceless Jewels”. The book also contains many rare pictures of the Divine Master, and is sure to be highly inspiring for all devotees of Sri Swami Sivananda.

This book is a must for spiritual seekers, as well as devotees of Sri Swami Sivananda. Our latest audio CD, Satsang Volume 7, containing melodious Bhajans & Kirtans, was also released at Swami Sivananda's 125th Birth Anniversary Celebrations, 7-9 September. Both are available from all Divine Life Society of S.A. branches.

MORE PICTURES: PRICELESS JEWELS

The official opening of the Shree Veeraboga Sivananda Peace & Skills Training Centre which took place on Sunday, 15 July at the Shree Veeraboga Cultural Centre in Gandhi’s Hill, Tongaat was jointly hosted by Shree Veeraboga Emperumal Temple & Divine Life Society of South Africa.

At the Havan Ceremony at 8am, Priest,  Shri Anand Chandrasekar of Mylapore, Chennai, explained that he performed a Sangalpam or prayer offering to Lord Ganesha, Mother Lakshmi and the Navagrahas (nine planets) in that particular order to invoke their blessings. The centre is like a new born baby and special blessings should be done to ensure its steady and healthy growth. Lord Ganesha is invoked to remove all the obstacles and make way for auspiciousness. Mother Lakshmi is invoked to bless the new centre with prosperity and the Navagrahas are invoked to ensure that no future obstacles are presented in the life of the Centre.

Divine Life Society of South Africa expresses sincere thanks to the officials and devotees of the Shree Veeraboga Emperumal Temple for the cordial and harmonious manner in which they have interacted with us over the years. It is this harmony and goodwill that has enabled us to jointly promote the principles of our glorious Hindu Dharma in this country.

Shree Veeraboga Sivananda Peace & Skills Training Centre was initiated by Pujya Swami Sahajananda in a letter to the Officials of the Shree Veeraboga Emperumal Temple, many years ago. In this letter Pujya Swamiji states, “As you are well aware, there is a lot of unemployment in our province. In order to help those who are in need, our Society is trying to set up sewing centres where people can learn how to sew garments and thus earn a livelihood. Our Society would like to set up such a sewing centre if your organisation has vacant land available for the purpose.” SVET immediately accepted this offer and so began a noble and service orientated project.

SVET has graciously offered to honour our Divine Master, Sri Swami Sivananda by observing his 125th Birth Anniversary on this occasion.

A power-point presentation, accompanied by Swami Sivananda’s audio of Twenty Important Spiritual Instructions, was well received by the receptive congregation.

Sri Johnny Gounden, Trustee of Shree Veeraboga Emperumal Temple said in his address, “Today is no doubt a proud and historic day for all of us at the Shree Veeraboga Emperumal Temple. This day marks the culmination of a vision that we set for ourselves a few years ago when we translated an idea into a concept which led to the development of an ambitious plan to build a Skills Training Centre at SVET. However, it could not materialise without the Grace and blessings of our revered late Pujya Swami Sahajananda, Spiritual Head of Divine Life Society of South Africa. Pujya Swamiji remained the guiding light of this project.”

He attributed the success of the Centre to Pujya Swami Sahajananda who in a letter guided them as follows, “Lakshmi will flow here if you abide by the following rules:

1. No meat, alcohol or drugs to be consumed on the temple premises.

2. Ensure that you strictly preserve our rich culture and heritage without indulging in things like discos, bhangras, western dancing and gambling.

Sri Gounden strongly believed that Divine Grace was flowing freely at the Temple because the temple management was strictly following the instructions given by Pujya Swamiji.

Melodious Bhajans and Kirtans by DLS of SA and SVET, classical dances by Stephanie Moodley and Kumarie Kayleen Pillay and a brilliantly enacted play on the “Life & Teachings of Swami Sivananda” by the Spiritual Darlings and youth of the Pietermaritzburg branch of DLS all contributed to the spiritual and cultural ambience of the function.

Through the Grace of our Master and Pujya Swamiji and the sincerity, dedication, perseverance and commitment of the officials of this Centre, the Shree Veeraboga Sivananda Peace & Skills Training Centre has been successfully completed. We have no doubt that this Centre will not only fulfil its purpose, but will also take many souls towards God. It comprises a large sewing centre, a computer training centre, a library/reading room and a Peace Centre decorated with beautiful pictures of birds, animals, scenic wonders accompanied by educative sayings from the writing of our Divine Master. We congratulate SVET on this accomplishment and wish them every success in promoting the Peace and Skills Training Centre as well as in fostering the teachings of our ancient Saints and Sages.

PICTURES: OFFICIAL OPENING OF THE CENTRE
Shree Veeraboga Sivananda Peace & Skills Training Centre	Opening Dance
Unveiling of Plaque	Opening of Centre
Dignitaries in Peace Centre	Play: From Man to God-man
Play: From Man to God-man	Play: From Man to God-man

SRI GURUDEV'S 49TH MAHASAMADHI ANNIVERSARY

Sri Swami Sivananda Sri Swami Sivananda's 49th Mahasamadhi Anniversary was observed on Thursday, 12 July as per the Sanskrit calendar and on Saturday, 14 July as per the english calendar. On the morning of the 14th, about 1 000 grocery hampers were distributed to indigent families at Sivananda International Cultural Centre in La Mercy. In the evening, a large gathering assembled at Sivanandashram, Reservoir Hills, to observe this auspicious event. In an inspiring reading from the book, “Man to God-man” written by Sri N. Ananthanarayan, we heard the following, “July 13, 1963, a day prior to the Master's Mahasamadhi. Gurudev appeared to be in a mood to speak. Doctor Mother ventured to open a conversation: ‘Swamiji, you were unconscious for four, five days’. Gurudev simply nodded. Mother Hridayanandaji then said ‘Swamiji was semi-conscious for another four, five days’. Once again, Gurudev just nodded, as if to say, "Hmm?" Then finally, Mother Hridayanandaji asked Gurudev, ‘Swamiji, does Swamiji know since how many days Swamiji is in bed?’ Gurudev immediately replied, “Twenty days!” Mother Hridayanandaji, and others with her, were astounded at the accuracy of Gurudev's reply. ‘How could an unconscious or semi-conscious person know the exact number of days he had been in bed?,’ they wondered. Once again Gurudev had proved that he was far, far, beyond the reach of the human intellect, vastly beyond our comprehension.” Forty nine years ago, the Divine Master, Sri Swami Sivananda shed his mortal coil and merged in God on 14 July 1963. Saints and sages agree that so long as a great soul lives in the body, his power is limited, but when he is released from the body, his power knows no bounds. Disciples throughout the world have testified that the guidance of our Divine Master, is even more noticeable after his passing. We express our eternal gratitude to our Divine Master for the bountiful gifts he has bestowed upon us and continues to do so even to this day. In a DVD presentation on the last days of the Master, we heard the Master say, “Be not afraid of death. If you remember God always, you will remember Him at the time of death.” On the same topic, Pujya Swamiji is an audio message said, “When the time comes, we should be ready to ‘quit the scene’. We can only joyously ‘quit the scene’ if we know what is on the other side. We have fear of death. We cling to things in life, but when we feel God and know that Gurudev is on the other side, then we have no fear at all.” Our Master has immortalised himself through this writings, teachings, lectures, tape-recordings and faithful disciples throughout the world. In an audio message thereafter, Pujya Swami Sahajananda said that the Ashram and the facilities were created by God for our spiritual progress. “I can assure you” said Pujya Swamiji “that there are wonderful treasures awaiting you. The transformation is not easy. We have to go through a lot of painful episodes but the final fruit is so marvellous that you cannot describe it at all. You will feel that God in His entirety belongs to you. If you give yourself completely to the Guru, the Guru himself gives himself completely to you. You will feel the vastness of God and there is no fear after that.” Sri Ananthanarayan concludes, “The time the Master chose to merge with the Supreme proved to be a holy Muhurta of extreme auspiciousness. It presented an exalted planetary position on the last limit of Uttarayana, and just before the commencement of the "Southern Path". An expert horologist, who was also a capable astrologer, had mentioned only upon the morning of that fateful Sunday, that round about midnight there was going to be such an unparalleled and auspicious planetary conjunction that any Yogi who was getting ready to depart would never wish to miss it. The prediction proved correct and the Master chose the moment.”

PUJYA SWAMI SAHAJANANDA'S 87TH BIRTH ANNIVERSARY

Sri Swami Sahajananda On the sacred occasion of Pujya Swami Sahajananda’s 87th Birth Anniversary, we  pay homage to our Divine Master, Sri Swami Sivananda and beloved Pujya Swami Sahajananda for their precious spiritual guidance and loving protection. Pujya Swamiji’s Birth Anniversary was observed at Sivanandashram, Reservoir Hills on Tuesday, 10 July 2012. More than 200 devotees attended the morning session that commenced at 6am with Ganga Arati, followed by Invocation and Darshan at Sahaja Kutir and Pujya Swamiji’s sacred room. Akanda chanting commenced thereafter and continued until 4pm. In the evening, over 700 devotees attended a soul-elevating Satsang to commemorate the event. Many thousands of years ago, in the city of Mathura, a child was born to a pious, devout couple in the harsh and humble environment of a prison. That child was Lord Krishna, an Avatar of Lord Vishnu. Eighty seven years ago, in the railway barracks of Estcourt, South Africa, a child was born to a poor, humble couple and raised in a home made of mud. That child was Sri V. Srinivasan, later ordained as Swami Sahajananda, Spiritual Head of the Divine Life Society of South Africa. Like Lord Krishna, he roamed the fields of Estcourt barefoot and tended to the cows. His humble upbringing and the hardships he endured throughout his life, belied the spiritual giant that he was. Described as a “saviour and benefactor of the poorest of the poor", he was an embodiment of compassion, humility and selflessness—endearing him to all who were blessed to have met him. He was one of the foremost devotees of his Guru, Swami Sivananda, and such was his loving obedience to his Master that he exemplified and promoted the practice of Guru-Bhakti Yoga like never before. His contribution to the spiritual and social upliftment of all those whose lives he touched, both in South Africa and abroad, is unparalleled in our country’s history. It is not possible for us to do justice to define or describe the unique God-man that Pujya Swamiji is.   On the occasion of the Swamiji’s initiation into Sannyashood on 10 April 1956, the Divine Master, Sri Swami Sivananda paid a glorious and glowing tribute to Pujya Swamiji. This audio message was played, accompanied by a powerpoint presentation. Referring to Pujya Swamiji, the Master said, “So we rejoice today heartily, because we have amidst us a noble personality, a spiritual personality, a Bala Yogi, a Bala Swami, Swami Sahajananda. He is styled as king, spiritual king of South Africa, Durban. He is also called the African Chota Guru. He does not want anything. He is a silent worker. He is a man of renunciation, Vairagya and meditation. He is a very good organiser. He has organized some 20 branches of the Divine Life Society in South Africa. He is established in Sahaja Avastha. He does not forget Brahman when he is working. He has got double consciousness. He is resting in his Satchidananda Swarupa and he is utilising his mind and Indriyas for the good of humanity. He is a strong pillar of the Divine Life Society.” Click here to view Sri Gurudev’s full message >> What is the significance celebrating the birthday of a saint? When Sri Gurudev was questioned about the observance of his birthday, he replied, “It is not without purpose that the Hindus celebrate the birthdays of religious leaders, saints and sages. The devotees take delight in celebrating the birthday and they are benefited, uplifted. A spiritual wave is created year after year when the birthday is celebrated. The celebration of the birthday is an annual reminder to the aspirants of the purpose of their life. It is a fillip to their Sadhana. The pious, receptive attitude prevalent on such an occasion draws forth the Grace of the Guru and God upon the devotees. The thoughts of peace, love, devotion, etc., sent out by the innumerable devotees that assemble together to celebrate the birthday go a long way to promote peace, harmony and spiritual well-being in the land.” It is customary for us to shower gifts upon those who are celebrating a birthday. Pujya Swamiji may have cast aside his mortal frame, but all around us we see and enjoy the fruits of his Sadhana, the spiritual legacy of our Divine Father. What gift can we give to one who has made such a priceless contribution to the lives of each one of us, whether we know it or not? Who better to be guided by, in this important decision, than Pujya Swamiji himself?  In 2001, in Path of Divine Grace Vol 2, on the occasion of Gurudev’s Sannyas Anniversary, Pujya Swamiji wrote: “How can we repay the debt of gratitude to our Master for all that He has done and is still doing for us?” Swamiji goes on to list 11 simple and practical ways; these are priceless gifts that every one of us will be able to afford to shower upon Swamiji as an offering of our love and gratitude: 1. We can show love, kindness, forgiveness and tolerance to others, both at home and our place of work. 2. We can serve our Master in any of the many ways available at our Ashrams. 3. We can do regular meditation in the morning and Bhajan in the evening. 4. We can distribute our Master’s literature. 5. We can attend Satsangs, Yoga Camps and Ganga Arati regularly. 6. We can spend some time daily in studying our Master’s literature. 7. We can do regular charity. Where possible our Master says that at least 10% of one’s salary should be spent in charity. There is no harm in purchasing a good car, in having a beautiful home, and keeping sufficient funds for the future, but all excess wealth should be spent in charity. Our Master states, “No one knows that that beggar walking in the street was a millionaire in his previous birth.” He is now a beggar because he did not do charity in his previous birth. He hoarded wealth. Those who do charity today will be well provided for in the next birth. When we sing Jaya Gurudev, we repeat that our body, mind and wealth should be given to the Guru. Praying like this and hoarding money will bring bad Karma. Whatever we utter is registered in the Akasa. 8. We can practise Brahmacharya and partake of a vegetarian diet. We can avoid TV, places of gambling and bad company. Without Brahmacharya, no spiritual progress can be made. Health also deteriorates greatly when much of the vital force is wasted. 9. The best gifts we can give our Divine Master are the gifts of selfless service, obedience and complete surrender to him. 10. We can open our heart to our Divine Master by avoiding the yale lock. 11. We can pray for those who cause us problems. In a pre-recorded audio message played at the Satsang, Pujya Swamiji said, “A tremendous faith in the Divine Name, an unshakeable faith in one Guru and following one method will take us to the goal. Whatever method the Guru has chalked out, whether it is the Divine Name or any other method, stick to it with all your heart, all your mind and all your soul and see if you don’t make any progress. However much you forget the Name you should bring it back again and again. The last thing you should have on your mind before you go to bed is the Divine Name and the first thing should be the Divine Name also. Then it will come in your dreams also. This shows that in the waking state it is going on unconsciously too. Later on the Divine Name is automatic. It settles in the heart and nothing disturbs it. You are quite conscious it is going on. The work is not disturbed. The work doesn’t disturb the Name and the Name does not disturb the work. Gurudev calls this the ‘double consciousness’”. Pujya Swamiji’s singing of the Song, “Thou Art My Love” touched the hearts of devotees who followed this melodious rendition. Thou art my life, Thou art my love, Thou art the sweetness, which I do seek. In the thought by my love brought, I taste Thy Name so sweet, so sweet. Devotee knows how sweet You are He knows, whom You let know. The verbal audio message and Bhajan both reveal Pujya Swamiji’s inner life. Gurudev wrote many books on what constituted a life divine. Pujya Swamiji’s very life was a book on how to live a divine life. The presence of Pujya Swamiji was felt by many, and we thank our Divine Master and Pujya Swamiji for a soul-elevating Satsang. May the blessings of our Divine Master and Pujya Swamiji be upon all! PICTURES: PUJYA SWAMIJI'S BIRTH ANNIVERSARY Ganga Arati at Morning Session Ganga Arati at Morning Session Ganga Arati at Morning Session Ganga Arati at Morning Session Darshan at Sahaja Kutir Ganga Arati at Evening Satsang Ganga Arati at Evening Satsang Ganga Arati at Evening Satsang Satsang in progress Satsang in progress

SRI GURU PURNIMA, 3 JULY 2012

Sri Swami Sivananda On the auspicious occasion of Sri Guru Purnima, we offer our deepest gratitude to our Divine Master, Sri Swami Sivananda and Pujya Swami Sahajananda for the bountiful spiritual and material gifts bestowed upon devotees, not only in this country but the world at large. We pay homage to Sri Shankaracharya, from whose divine lineage our Divine Master, Sri Swami Sivananda descended. We also pay homage to all saints and sages of the past and present and to all Brahma Vidya Gurus. We offer our gratitude to all patrons, donors, devotees and well-wishers who have been supporting our Society so generously throughout the years, and continue to do so even during these difficult economic conditions. We also take the opportunity of paying our sincere respects and gratitude to all devotees who have served the Master with so much devotion and loyalty. Sri Guru Purnima is the time when every spiritual seeker renews his spiritual contact with his Guru. He rededicates his body, mind and soul to the Great Master and pledges his loyalty. On this day, spiritual aspirants all over the world would also mentally re-affirm their resolve to tread the spiritual path to attain the supreme goal. On this day, too, every spiritual aspirant resolves to do some act of loving service in the name of his Guru. In July 2001, on the auspicious occasion of Sri Guru Purnima Pujya Swamiji wrote the following paragraph in our Guru-Bhakti Yoga magazine – 14, “The Divine is beyond the mind and the senses, reason and intellect and can hardly be understood by indulging in intellectual gymnastics. On the other hand, a word from the Masters lips, a touch of his divine hand, a thought from his master-mind, would be enough to enlighten the aspirant’s intellect, to bestow upon him an intuitive realization. For this he must prepare himself through selfless service and devotion to the Guru.” We are very pleased to report that our Sri Guru Purnima Satsang on Tuesday, 3 July attracted devotees from many parts of the country. About 300 devotees braved the morning cold for the morning session at Sivanandashram, Reservoir Hills, which comprised Ganga Arati, short invocation, Darshan at Sahaja Kutir and Pujya Swami Sahajananda’s sacred room and a visit to Sahanajanada Diamond Jubilee Centre. In the afternoon, devotees assembled at Sivananda International Cultural Centre for Ganga Arati at 4.30pm followed by Satsang at 5.30pm. On this auspicious day, Bhagirathi, the cascading water feature consecrated with holy Ganga water was re-opened for Ganga Arati after renovations. Devotees queued all the way up the steps to the entrance to have Darshan of our Divine Master and Mother Ganga. It was indeed pleasing to see that such a large gathering of devotees came to pay homage to the Master. During Satsang, Sivananda Prayer Hall was filled to capacity and the overflow halls had to be used to accommodate the congregation. The newly built Sivananda Sahajananda Book Stall was also officially opened on this auspicious day. We quote excerpts from the Sri Swami Sivananda’s thought provoking Guru Purnima message: “The Guru is God Himself manifesting in a personal form to guide the aspirant. The Grace of God takes the form of the Guru. To see the Guru is to see God. The Guru is united with God. He inspires devotion in others. It is through the medium and Grace of the spiritual preceptor that the individual can raise himself to Cosmic Consciousness. The Guru is verily a link between the individual and the Immortal. Do you realise now the sacred significance and the supreme importance of the Guru's role in the evolution of man?  It is therefore not without reason that India, year after year, age after age, commemorates anew this ancient concept of the holy Guru, adores it and pays homage to it again and again, and thereby re-affirms its belief and allegiance to it. For the true Indian knows that the Guru is the only real guarantee for the individual to transcend the bondage of sorrow and death, of pain and misery, and experience the bliss and peace of the Reality “Just as you can give an orange to a man, so also, spiritual power can be transmitted by one to another. A certain spiritual vibration of the Master is actually transferred to the mind of the disciple. Spiritual power is transmitted by the Guru to the proper disciple whom he considers fit. “The Grace of a Guru is very necessary. That does not mean that the disciple should sit idle. He must do rigid spiritual practices. The whole work must be done by the student. Today, seekers want a drop of water from the water-pot of a Sannyasin and desire to enter into the state of Samadhi immediately. They are not prepared to undergo any kind of spiritual practice for purification and Self-realization. They want a magic pill to push them into the state of God-realisation. If you have such kinds of delusion, give it up immediately. “The Guru and the Shastras can show you the path and remove doubts. Direct experience or intuitive knowledge must be experience by the aspirant. A hungry man will have to eat to appease his hunger. He who has severe itching will have to do the scratching himself. “How can one have the blessings of the Guru?  By pleasing the Guru. A Guru is pleased with his disciple only if the disciple carries out his Guru’s instructions implicitly. Therefore, follow the instructions of the Guru carefully. Act up to his instructions. Then only will you deserve his Grace and blessings, and then alone his blessings can do everything. “The best form of worship of the Guru is to follow his teachings, to shine as the very embodiment of his teachings, and to propagate his glory and message.” In a humorous and educative audio message, Pujya Swami Sahajananda exhorted devotees to be simple and natural in their approach to everything. They should not imitate another but should chalk out their own spiritual routine, within the guidelines given by the Guru, according to their inclination and follow it diligently. When you go to a saint, said Swamiji, you do not leave empty handed. If you have the right attitude, you can benefit greatly. Swamiji also advised us not to judge saints because it is very difficult to understand them. They do not always conform to the norms of Society and those who doubt will be the losers. We thank our Divine Master and Pujya Swamiji for a spiritually elevating Satsang. We pray that their Grace, blessings and protection be upon all devotees, donors, patrons and well-wishers! PICTURES: SRI GURU PURNIMA Ganga Arati at Morning Session Ganga Arati at Morning Session Ganga Arati at Morning Session Darshan at Sahaja Kutir Darshan at Sahaja Kutir Ganga Arati at Bhagirathi Ganga Arati at Bhagirathi Ganga Arati at Bhagirathi Satsang in progress Satsang in progress Spiritual Darlings singing Song of Salutationa Official Opening of Sivananda Sahajananda Book Stall

ALL SOULS DAY WITH MAHA YAJNA ON SUNDAY, 1 JULY 2012

All Souls Day, a special prayer service for the peace of departed souls, is observed at Sivananda Ghat on the first of every month. Once a year, a special All Souls Day is conducted, with a Maha Yajna (mass Havan) and Satsang. This year, the function took place on Sunday, 1 July 2012. More than 1 500 people from all over the province and Gauteng attended this unique function, with 530 participating in the Maha Yajna for the peace of departed souls. The Divine Master, Sri Swami Sivananda, inaugurated “All Souls Day” at the Ashram in Rishikesh, complaining that many were neglecting the prayers for departed souls. He said, “The departed souls are in great grief. They naturally look to us to help them. We must do this.” In Sivananda’s Gospel of Divine Life, referring to All Souls Day, it states, “An aspirant mentioned that a spiritualist who visited the Ashram recently had contacted several departed souls, who declared that they were eternally grateful to the Master for his Kirtans and prayers for their peace.” Through the meals prepared on the morning of 1 July for 2 000 indigent persons, the Havan Ceremony and the melodious Bhajans and Kirtans thereafter, devotees contributed to the peace of our ancestors and all departed souls. Before the commencement of the Havan Ceremony, inspiring messages from our Divine Master, Sri Swami Sivananda and Pujya Swami Sahajananda were read. We quote excerpts from the message from our Divine Master, taken from the book, What Becomes of the Soul After Death. “Death is separation of the soul from the physical body. It becomes the starting point of a new and better life. It does not end your personality. It merely opens the door to a higher form of life. Death is only the gateway to a fuller life. “Birth and death are the juggleries of Maya, the great illusory power of the Lord. He who dies begins to live. Life is death, and death is life. Birth and death are merely doors of entry and exit on the stage of this world. In reality no one comes, no one goes. Brahman or the Eternal alone exists. “Just as you move from one house to another, so also the soul passes from one body to another to gain experience. Just as a man casting off worn-out garments puts on new ones, so also, the dweller of this body, casting off worn-out bodies, enters others which are new. “Death is not the end of life. Life is a continuous never-ending process. Death is only a passing and necessary phenomenon, which every soul has to go through to gain experiences for its further evolution. “The weeping and uncontrolled grief of relatives gives departed souls pains and drags them down from their astral planes. This may seriously retard them on their way to the heaven world. This produces serious injury to them. While they are sinking peacefully, and when they are ready to have a glorious awakening in heaven, they are aroused into vivid remembrance of the mundane life by the weeping and wailing of their friends and relatives. The latter’s thoughts produce similar vibrations in their minds and produce acute pain and discomfort. “Therefore, relatives and friends should do Kirtan and prayers for the peace of the departed souls. Then only can they really help and comfort them. If ten or twelve persons sit together and do Kirtan and prayer, it will be decidedly more powerful and effective. Collective prayer and Kirtan exercise a tremendous influence.” In a message written by Pujya Swamiji on the occasion of the Official Opening of Sivananda Ghat on 5 June 2005, Swamiji wrote, “Besides enabling bereaved families to deposit the ashes of the deceased in the Umgeni River, Sivananda Ghat is a highly educational and spiritual centre. Often, only when some calamity or death takes place does one ask questions like: “Who am I? What is the purpose of life? Where have I come from? Where am I going to? Why am I suffering? How to overcome my suffering?” “The inspiring sayings in Sivananda Ghat will definitely make many individuals to begin seeking God. Many are going to change their lifestyle”, wrote Swamiji.  Swamiji also touched on a topic that applies to all human beings, “We are all looking for peace and happiness, but the peace and happiness we enjoy in this world is not lasting. To attain everlasting peace and happiness we have to pay the full price, because the bliss we enjoy when in union with God is so marvellous and stupendous that it is indescribable. Therefore, to attain this bliss we have to pay the full price by engaging in arduous meditation and prayer for many years. All the saints had to practise daily meditation for many hours to realise God.” We express our deep gratitude to our Divine Master, Sri Swami Sivananda and to Pujya Swami Sahajananda for once again making this annual event such a  spiritual success. Comment from Attendee: Thank you for inviting me for the All Souls Day Satsang. My family and I felt really good and spiritually uplifted having participated in the Havan. I feel within me a great significance to such an occasion and would really love to participate in all such future events. I had actually not been well over the weekend but after having come along my illness even disappeared. Thank you once again. —Sri Naren Rattipaul PICTURES: ALL SOULS DAY WITH MAHA YAJNA, 1 JULY 2012 Ganga Arati inside Sivananda Ghat Devotees seated for the Maha Yajna Devotees seated for the Maha Yajna Devotees seated for the Maha Yajna Maha Yajna in progress Maha Yajna in progress Maha Yajna in progress Maha Yajna in progress Maha Yajna in progress Devotees walking around singing Bhajans & Kirtans

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