The most auspicious Varalakshmi Vratam was observed at Sivanandashram, Reservoir Hills on Friday, 8 August 2025, coinciding with the monthly Birthdate Satsang of Sri Swami Sivananda. Ganga Arati commenced at 5.30pm followed by Satsang. The Satsang programme comprised Kirtans, Bhajans, a reading and a DVD.

Sri Swami Sivananda’s profound message on the significance of Mother Lakshmi is captured in the reading from Yoga Lessons for Children, Volume 1. The Master said, “The Vedas describe Mother Lakshmi as the Goddess of riches. God now manifests in the form of wealth. There is material wealth as well as spiritual wealth. Mother Lakshmi provides us with both, but many people think of Her as a symbol of material wealth only; and it is true that She will grant us this if we so desire. But on the spiritual path, we pray to the Divine Mother for something lasting, something more precious - it is the divine spiritual wealth of God.

“Mother Lakshmi also gives joy. She makes life on earth bearable. Without Her, life on earth would be a journey of pain and suffering. 

“She appears to the world as a Goddess of peace. When we pray to Her, there is peace in the universe – peace among nations and mankind, and freedom from conflicts and wars. The Divine Mother takes care of the welfare of Her children and blesses the world with good health.

“Every home is the dwelling-place of Mother Lakshmi. At sunset, when the lamps are lit, we pray to Her and ask Her to bless our homes. To earn the blessings of Mother Lakshmi, we must pay attention to three important aspects of our life at home. These are cleanliness, hospitality, and charity. If we practise these virtues, we will obtain the Grace of Mother Lakshmi in abundance and will never suffer from any want. 

“The Mother is pleased with a home that is spotlessly clean. She blesses such homes with Her Presence. She is not present in homes that are kept untidy and unkempt. So, we should learn to take very great care of the material things which She represents and has given us.

“Mother Lakshmi is seen in pictures as being richly dressed. She wears ornaments of gold. The elephant seen at Her side represents pomp and grandeur. She stands on a lotus and holds two lotus flowers in full bloom, representing fullness in all aspects, both material and spiritual.  

“The higher nature of the Mother is really spiritual wealth – a pure heart, sweetness of manners, behaviour and speech, service to the Guru, etc. Pray to the Mother to grant you the divine spiritual wealth instead of material things. You will then enjoy everlasting peace and happiness”.

In the DVD, Message of Sivananda, Sri Swami Sivananda extolled the nature of Brahman. He describes Brahman as the ultimate reality, the source and substratum of all existence, beyond time, space, and causation. It is the unchanging, eternal, self-existent, and self-luminous Absolute. Brahman is also described as pure consciousness, the essence of all beings, and the ultimate truth that underlies the apparent diversity of the universe. In the second part of the message, the Master advised that we should take care of little things, to cope with the more complex challenges of life.

May Sri Swami Sivananda’s advice that Mother's Lakshmi’s true abode is within one’s heart, and that She is best worshipped through the cultivation of divine qualities, service to humanity and spiritual enlightenment, be the cornerstones of our lives.

CLICK HERE TO READ DIVINE LIFE MAGAZINE NO.143

The 62nd Mahasamadhi Anniversary of Sri Swami Sivananda, according to the Sanskrit Calendar, was observed at Sivanandashram, Reservoir Hills on Saturday, 19 July 2025. Ganga Arati commenced at 5.30pm followed by Satsang. The Satsang programme comprised a reading, Pujya Swami Sahajananda’s audio message, Kirtans, Bhajans and a video on the Master’s last days in his physical body and his Mahasamadhi.

The reading from the book, From Man to God-Man by N. Ananthanarayanan traced the Master’s last day on the mortal plane, as is evident in, “On July 14, Colonel Puri came to examine the Master. As he tapped with his rod to test the reflexes, the Master said, ‘Doctors are very cruel”’.

‘“Yes, Swamiji, what can be done? It is our duty”’, said the doctor, and added, ‘"Swamiji, you will be all right shortly’”. 

‘“Yes, I must”’, said the Master, “"I have many things to do”’.

“’You will do, Swamiji, but with a handicap”’. The Master heard the doctor's words clearly and gave him a steady look. Then in his unfailing hospitality saw to it that the doctor was offered uppama, coffee and books. He finally concluded with a farewell and an Om Namo Narayanaya. 

“After the doctor had left, and before he could take his own food, the Master developed fever and began to shiver. The breathing hardened. He took two or three spoonsful of Horlicks, and at about 3pm asked for water. As was the usual practice the disciples wanted to give him barley water or jeera water, but he wished to have Ganges water, pure and simple. The water was brought. The Master, who had experienced difficulty in taking the smallest quantity of solid or liquid, gulped down half a glassful of Ganges water without apparent trouble - and with that the Being that was Swami Sivananda laid aside its mortal vesture. It was now 11.15pm. 

“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 miss it. The prediction proved correct, and the Master chose the moment”.

Pujya Swami Sahajananda’s audio message focused on the concept of fear, self-transformation and surrender. He said that we should not run away from our fears but should face them to oppose our fears. He narrated the experience of Sri Swami Vivekananda who was being chased by monkeys. A saint who met him on the way told him to “face the brutes”, which he did. The monkeys then ran away. He also advised that we should surrender completely to God. We must harmonise our thoughts to be in tune with God. One must do rigorous Sadhana to transform oneself. It is of little benefit if a Pundit chanted Mantras in our homes whilst we are occupied with other activities. We must chant the Divine Name to experience the power of Ram Nam. He said, “Cling to God’s Name and you will see change….external situations we cannot control …. The only thing we can have control of is your own mind… God will see to everything”.  God has given us the assurance, even in the Bhagavad Gita that He will protect us. 

A potent and powerful video of the Master’s last days, his Mahasamadhi and ceremonial bath, was both moving and gripping. The reverence of the devotees, the sense of quiet dignity and decorum with which his last rites were conducted, left indelible impressions on the minds of viewers. The sounds of conches, Vedic Chants and Mantras reverberated in the precincts of the Master’s sacred Ashram. The Master’s words in the video, “Do not be afraid of death. If you think of God constantly, you will think of Him at the time of death also…your duty is to remember Him constantly”, are soul-inspiring and a testimony to his lasting spiritual teachings and legacy.

The greatness of Swami Sivananda’s teachings and legacies lie in their timeless relevance, universal application, and transformative power. He was not just a philosopher or monk, but a divine light who lived what he preached. His life continues to inspire the world to lead a divine life with love, service and realisation as its pillars. His voice echoes through eternity: "Be good. Do good. Be kind. Be compassionate. Enquire, 'Who am I?' and realise your divine nature”. We will observe many more Mahasamadhi anniversaries. What is the road ahead? It is incumbent upon us to translate into practical reality, the Master’s and Sri Swami Sahajananda’s teachings and legacies, by fathomless Guru Bhakti, like that of Pujya Swami Sahajananda, for Sri Swami Sahajananda was not just a disciple; he was Sri Swami Sivananda in action. His life is a glowing testimony to the power of Guru Bhakti, silent service, and God-conscious living. Today, both Sri Swami Sivananda’s and Pujya Swami Sahajananda’s legacies continue to inspire, and their lives stand as beacons of light in a world in need of true spiritual heroes.

SIVANANDASHRAM, SANDTON;BRANCH LAUNCHES SANDTON BRANCH SIVANANDA WISDOM GROUP (SWG): WEDNESDAY, 12 JUNE 2025

Divine Life Society of South Africa launched its Sivananda Wisdom Group (SWG) at Sivanandashram, Sandton Branch on Wednesday, 12 June 2025. The inaugural session, held from 10am to 12 noon, was attended by thirty devotees and guests, many of whom are long-standing members and former residents of KwaZulu-Natal.

The Sivananda Wisdom Group is a spiritual initiative open to all age groups, aimed at promoting collective study, reflection, and the practical application of the teachings of Sri Swami Sivananda and Pujya Swami Sahajananda. The Sandton SWG is the third to be established within the Society, following the formation of the first group at the Sivananda Sunlit Path Centre in Arena Park over a decade ago, and the second at the Society’s Headquarters in Reservoir Hills in October 2024. At Sivanandashram, Sandton, the SWG will be held on a fortnightly basis on Tuesdays.

The core principles of the SWG will be Sri Gurudev’s teachings on Divine Life, and fostering spiritual harmony and unity. The establishment of the Sandton Sivananda Wisdom Group marks a meaningful step in strengthening the Society’s spiritual outreach. It is anticipated that this initiative will inspire ongoing growth through shared learning, devotion, and service, in the noble tradition of Sri Swami Sivananda’s divine teachings.

Youth Day was celebrated on Sunday, 15 June 2025 at Sivanandashram, Reservoir Hills. This coincided with the Sunday morning Satsang. Registration and breakfast commenced at 8.30am. Ganga Arati began at 8.50am followed by Satsang at 9am. The second part of the programme was from 10.30am until 12.30pm. 

The Satsang programme comprised Kirtans, Bhajans, readings and a presentation on the Four Yugas by the youth boys. On the latter topic, the presentation focused on the concept of time in Hindu cosmology, where time is cyclical and divided into four Yugas, known collectively as the Chatur Yuga or Maha Yuga. These Yugas represent ages or epochs, each with a progressive decline in virtue, Dharma (righteousness), and spiritual knowledge. In Satya Yuga (also known as Krita Yuga), truth and Dharma reigned supreme and was characterised by the "Golden Age" of truth and perfection. People were spiritually advanced, lived long and were free of suffering. Truth was innate. The Treta Yuga saw a slight decline in virtue, emergence of rituals and sacrifices (Yajnas). The Dvapara Yuga was characterised by further decline in morality and lifespan. There was a rise in disease, suffering and conflict. The Mahabharata and Lord Krishna belong to this Yuga. Kali Yuga, which we are presently in, is the "Dark Age" of ignorance, strife, and materialism. Spirituality is diminished and virtue is at its lowest. 

The presentation highlighted the ills of Kali Yuga, namely humanity’s chaos and loss of moral and spiritual values. By the time Kali Yuga ends, the Vedas will be forgotten completely, and man will be mostly atheistic. The following predictions in the presentation attest to these scenarios, “The leaders will be thieves; the occupation of men will be stealing, lying and needless violence, and all the social classes will be reduced to the lowest level. Cows will be killed, and spiritual institutions will be no different from mundane houses. Family ties will extend no further than the immediate bonds of marriage. Seasons will go awry; homes will be devoid of piety and there will be no morality.

“At that time, the Supreme Personality of Godhead will appear on earth and rescue the eternal Dharma. It is in this age that Lord Vishnu will incarnate on this earthly plane as the Avatar Kalki. This will be the only descent of supreme consciousness during the Kali Yuga. Riding a white horse named Devadutta with a drawn sword, Kalki will mow down the evil and corrupt and ensure the reign of Dharma. The Kalki Avatar will establish the principles of eternal Dharma once again and the people of earth will turn to the path of righteousness. This will mark the beginning of Satya Yuga, an era of virtue, enlightenment and spirituality”.

The address on Sleep Health, in the second session focused on why we feel sleepy at night, and what happens to the body, mind, emotions and spirit when we are asleep. The following questions were also addressed: What happens if we do not sleep? What prevents us from getting a good night’s sleep? What are the benefits of sleep?  How can we improve the quality and quantity of our sleep without sleeping tablets? Swami Sivananda’s advice on sleep and Yoga techniques for sleep, were also addressed. 

On the topic of sleep, Sri Swami Sivananda said, “Next to breathing, sleep is the greatest biological necessity. If breathing enables life to continue, sleep provides the most essential interval for the life-force to carry out the general repairs to the system. If breathing preserves life, sleep recoups the life's energy spent during the day's activity. If breathing points to the power that pulsates in all creation, sleep gives us a clue to the unmoving tranquil Reality. If breathing manifests the infinite diversity of phenomena, sleep describes to us the essential unity of existence. If breathing draws to us energy, vitality and power from the cosmic Power House (Hiranyagarbha) that surrounds us, sleep derives them from the Atman within. 

“Glory to the Lord! Glory to the Prana Sakti who maintains the universe! Glory to Nidra Devi who lulls you into unconsciousness so that you may be revitalised for the morrow's service! 

“The happiness of sleep is really the bliss of the Soul”.

The second session also had an interesting talk, entitled, Social Media. The presenter alluded to Pujya Swami Sahajananda’s warning of the harmful effects of cell phones and excessive television viewing. Applying Pujya Swamiji’s logic we can conclude that social media has the danger in social interactions, of feeding the ego and weakening our will-power. It robs us of time that could be used for productive activities such as prayer, study or Sadhana. The presenter advised that social media can be used positively, for example, in promoting Dharma., in that before posting, we need to ask ourselves: Is this true? It this kind? Is this necessary? Will this post bring the viewer closer to God or will it bring me closer to my ego? Rather than using our platforms to promote ourselves, we can promote truth, peace, love and wisdom. The presenter advised that one can use platforms to share the messages of Gurudev, Sri Swami Sivananda and Pujya Swami Sahajananda. She further advised us to share a message of hope, and advised us to “Make your social media grid a spiritual garden. We can also turn our scroll time into soul time”. The notion of social media fasting (abstinence from indulgence in social media) for a day or more, was also suggested. 

The final item of the day was a game, The Amazing Race, wherein two teams (males and females) competed against each other in a series of challenges and obstacles. Teams were given cues leading to a specific location. Once at the correct location, teams faced a range of challenges. Team building, group dynamics, leadership, speed and efficiency were also tested.  Teams worked together to make strategic decisions to succeed. The Amazing Race was an exciting and spiritually inspiring exercise that gently pushed teams to their limits, testing their physical and mental abilities, teamwork, and strategic thinking.

The youth are complimented on an eventful and stimulating Youth Day Celebration comprising a diverse range of topics, catering to different age groups. The attention to detail in all aspects of organisation and execution of the day’s activities, is highly commendable.

The 41-Day Recital of the Sri Hanuman Chalisa commenced on Tuesday, 29 July 2025 and will culminate on the 138th Birth Anniversary Celebrations of Sri Swami Sivananda, on Sunday, 7 September 2025 at Sivananda International Cultural Centre (SICC), La Mercy. 

Pujya Swami Sahajananda advised that the Sri Hanuman Chalisa is very powerful and effective for the removal of all mental problems. It brings good health, success and prosperity. It cures diseases, counteracts evil forces and the effects of "black magic", which are so prevalent today. It was recommended to Pujya Swami Sahajananda by Pujya Mother Krishnabai of Anandashram, one of the greatest saints of recent times. 

In the book, Essence of the Ramayana, Sri Swami Sivananda says, “Hanuman ranks first amongst the heroes of the world. His heroic deeds, wonderful exploits and marvellous feats of strength and bravery cannot be adequately described. His sense of duty was extremely laudable. He had great skill in all military tactics and methods of warfare. His crossing the sea of thirty miles in one leap and lifting the crest of a mountain in the palm of the hand, his carrying of the brothers on his shoulders from the nether world to Lanka are all astounding, superhuman feats which baffle human description”.

The 41-Day Recital launch on Tuesday, 29 July 2025 at Sivanandashram, Reservoir Hills, commenced with Ganga Arati at 5.30pm. Signed pledges were offered at the shrine. The Satsang Programme comprised Invocation, a reading of the rules for the 41-Day Recital, and the recital of the Sri Hanuman Chalisa 11 times. 

The rules which appear in the Divine Life Society of South Africa Prayer Book, are enumerated below and are useful to anyone who wishes to do this Vrat. 

• 1. The Sri Hanuman Chalisa should be repeated regularly for 41 days, either in the morning or in the evening. 
• 2. Have a bath and wear clean clothes. 
• 3. Sit in any comfortable posture in front of a picture of Sri Hanuman. 
• 4. Keep some fruit as Prasad in a little tray. 
• 5. Keep 11 flowers in another small tray. 
• 6. First commence repeating some Guru Mantras.
• 7. After the repetition of the Guru Mantras, commence the Sri Hanuman Chalisa from “Sri Guru Charana Sarojaraja…”
• 8. Complete the repetition till the end, until “Hridaya Basahu Sura Bhoop Sita Ram”. This is one repetition. 
• 9. On completion of the repetition once, offer one flower to Sri Hanuman. 
• 10. Do the repetition 11 times at each sitting. Each time a repetition is completed, offer one flower. In this way offer all the 11 flowers. 
• 11. After the completion 11 times at one sitting, repeat some Shanti Mantras, prostrate and get up. 
• 12. The fruit can be distributed to all as Prasad. 
• 13. While sitting in the posture, do not change it or look around. Keep the eyes closed and concentrate on the picture of Sri Hanuman, or concentrate on his picture with eyes open. 
• 14. On completion of the Mantra 11 times for 41 days, perform Havan with the help of a qualified Pundit, and do some Puja in a Hanuman temple with the guidance of a priest. 
• 15. You can also do poor feeding or some charity on completion of the Yajna. 
• 16. Women undergoing the monthly cleansing process should not repeat the Mantra during this period. 

May Sri Swami Sivananda’s profound description of Sri Hanuman’s prowess, Bhakti and loyalty to Sri Rama inspire us all. Sri Gurudev said, “He conquered innumerable difficulties which cropped up in his way through his courage, patience and undaunted spirit. He made untiring search to find Sita. At the time of danger, he exhibited marvellous courage and presence of mind. He was steady and firm in his actions. He was always successful in his attempts. Failure was not known to him. He gave up his life in the service of the Lord. He had not a tinge of selfishness in his actions. All his actions were offerings unto Lord Rama. No one reached the peak in Dasya Bhava like Sri Hanuman. He was a rare jewel among devotees, the supreme head among Pundits, the king among celibates and the commander among heroes and warriors.

“Where Hanuman is, there are Sri Rama and Sri Sita, and wherever Sri Rama and Sri Sita are praised and their deeds recited, there Hanuman is”.

May the Blessings of Lord Hanuman, Sri Swami Sivananda and Pujya Swami Sahajananda be upon us all.

On Saturday, 24 May 2025, Divine Life Society of South Africa participated in the Annual Career Fair hosted by the Nelson Mandela Community and Youth Centre in Chatsworth, from 9am to 1pm. This well-supported event brought together a wide range of educational and vocational organisations, and was attended primarily by learners accompanied by their parents, many of whom were exploring opportunities for skills’ development and personal growth.

Devotees of Divine Life Society of South Africa, including those from its Sivananda Sunlit Path Centre in Chatsworth represented the Society and shared information about its community-based programmes. Among the offerings that drew interest were the Sewing Classes and Computer Skills’ Courses, which provide valuable vocational skills aligned with the Fair’s theme of empowerment and development.

Visitors engaged with devotees, expressing appreciation for the Society’s ongoing contribution to community upliftment. In addition to skills’ training, the Society also offers counselling services to individuals facing emotional, health, or personal challenges further demonstrating its commitment to holistic support and care.

 A range of publications was made available, particularly those focused on youth development, self-discipline, and moral living - messages that resonated with both learners and parents.

Amongst those who visited our stall, were representatives of the South African military services. The participation of the Sivananda Sunlit Path Centre in this Annual Career Fair once again provided a sacred opportunity to foster spiritual and vocational upliftment, promote values-based education, and share the life-transforming teachings of Sri Swami Sivananda with members of the wider community.

The auspicious Guru Purnima and Sri Swami Sahajananda’s 100th Birth Anniversary were celebrated at both Sivanandashram, Reservoir Hills and Sivananda International Cultural Centre (SICC) on Thursday, 10 July 2025. 

The morning Sadhana programme at Sivanandashram, Reservoir Hills was from 6am to 8am, comprising Invocation, Akhanda Chanting, Darshan at Sahaja Kutir, Pujya Swamiji’s sacred Kutir and the Sivananda-Sahajananda Diamond Jubilee Centre. Havan and Paduka Puja ensued from 7am to 8am. Scores of devotees, well-wishers, donors and visitors braved the cold winter weather to attend this most sacred, divine and historic occasion. 

At SICC, Ganga Arati commenced at 2.30pm followed by Satsang from 4pm to 6.20pm. The programme comprised Kirtans, Bhajans, a dance, Sri Gurudev’s Guru Purnima messages, Pujya Swami Sahajananda’s audio message, a poetry recital with musical accompaniment  and the release of a Centenary Celebrations’ CD and booklet.

Sri Swami Sivananda’s Guru Purnima Message gave deep insight into this important occasion. The Master said, “The day of worship of one’s preceptor, is a day of pure joy to the sincere spiritual aspirant. Thrilled by the expectation of offering his reverent homage to the beloved Guru, aspirants await this occasion with eagerness and devotion. It is the Guru alone that breaks the binding cords of attachment and releases the aspirant from the trammels of earthly existence”.

Referring to the importance of a Guru, the Master explained, “The Grace of a Guru is very necessary. That does not mean that the disciple should sit idle. He must do rigid spiritual practices. All the work must be done by the student. The Guru and the scriptures can show you the path and remove your doubts. Direct experience or direct intuitive knowledge is left for your own experience. A hungry man will have to eat for himself. No doubt, the Guru's blessings can do everything. But how can one have his blessings? By pleasing the Guru. A Guru can be pleased with his disciple only if the latter carries out his spiritual instructions implicitly. Therefore, follow the instructions of the Guru carefully. Act up to his instructions. Only then will you deserve his blessings which 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 his message. A true disciple is one who serves his Guru till the end of his life. If the disciple survives after the Guru gives up his mortal coil, he should lead the remaining portion of his life strictly in accordance with his Guru's instructions and live to preach them to others by practising them himself”. 

The Master’s message concluded with his poem, My Disciple, “If anyone is rude and discourteous, if he cannot do prostrations to elders and saints, if he does not do Nishkamya Karma Yoga, if he does not know Asanas and Pranayama, if he has no knowledge of the Yoga of Synthesis, if he does not serve the poor and the sick, if he is not generous and charitable, if he cannot feel the unity of the Self in all beings, he cannot be my disciple”.

In a reference to this rare alignment of these two sacred events, the message from the Society reflected on Pujya Swamiji’s faith, loyalty and obedience to Sri Gurudev, as is evident in, “… it comes as no surprise that the 100th Birth Anniversary of beloved Pujya Swami Sahajananda coincides with Sri Guru Purnima this year. Devotees of Divine Life Society of South Africa were highly inspired by the Dasya Bhav and total self-surrender of Pujya Swamiji to our Divine Master, Sri Swami Sivananda, akin to the service of Sri Hanuman to Lord Rama”.

The message also focused on the importance of a Guru as emphasised in the Guru Gita, “By the devotion practised towards the Guru, one attains the state of Mukti even without knowledge. For those who tread the path of unflinching devotion to the Guru, no other Sadhana is needed than the Grace of the Guru”.  The message also paid tribute to Sri Gurudev and Pujya Swami Sahajananda for their bounteous gifts to us, and to devotees for their unflinching devotion and commitment to the continuation of Sri Gurudev’s and Pujya Swamiji’s legacies. “Today we pay homage to our Divine Master for making Swamiji take birth here in South Africa 100 years ago. Because of this grace, our country has benefited from more than 700 completed infrastructure projects, with this number continuing to grow into the future. Swamiji’s golden touch is reflected in our Ashram activities and programmes that are all progressing well”.

Pujya Swami Sahajananda’s audio message, pregnant with deep meaning, again focused on his relationship with, and unconditional loyalty to Sri Gurudev. He said that if he had to write a book, it would be entitled, The Mysteries and Marvels of the Guru’s Grace, for the Master chose him, so that he can be an ideal “specimen” to demonstrate the Master’s marvels. The Master was in complete control of his life, even to the extent of spelling his name differently. He said that, “Whatever came, came from Gurudev”. Regarding Pujya Swamiji’s initial request for Sannyas, the Master cautioned, saying, “Sannyas is made of sterner stuff”. Pujya Swamiji said that nobody could oppose Gurudev’s will, and that his (Pujya Swamiji’s) performance in the matriculation examination was a blessing in disguise. He said, “What appeared as a great tragedy then was a great blessing”, indicative of his complete surrender to the Master. He recounted how he first found the Master’s book, Practice of Karma Yoga in a Vedic Bookshop, and was instantly attracted to the Master, whom he adopted as his Guru. His faith in the Master has been ever steadfast, unconditional and unwavering.

Two Centenary Celebrations’ releases were made on this day. Prayers and Affirmations, a publication compiled from several of the Divine Master’s writings, including Science of Yoga, Sadhana, Daily Meditations, Hindu Fasts & Festivals and Light, Power & Wisdom, amongst others. Some prayers by Pujya Swami Sahajananda extracted from Path of Divine Grace, Guidance in Daily Life and Faith & Self-surrender are also included. A CD containing messages by Sri Swami Sivananda and Sri Swami Sahajananda, as well as two plays, Home Sadhana and Back to Basics, which are the gestalt of the Master’s and Pujya Swamiji’s cardinal teachings, was also released.

A beautiful dance, Mangal Bhavan Amangal Hari, dedicated to Lord Rama, Pujya Swamiji’s Ishta Devata, added colour to the programme and appropriately brought the programme to a beautiful climax. The dancers sought to invoke the Lord’s Divine Blessings to remove all inauspiciousness from our lives. Telicia Mahabeer, Kajal Raghubir, and Yaditha Singh from the Nateshwar Dance Academy made a splendid offering.

The Pietermaritzburg Branch’s excellent musical rendition comprising a poem dedicated to Sri Gurudev, entitled Siva Divine composed by Pujya Swamiji, and a birthday song dedicated to Pujya Swamiji, were both inspirational and insightful.  Some of the words of the poem are captured herewith: 

Siva Divine
To serve with love his Lotus feet,
In pleasure and pain, in cold and heat,
To serve the sick, to serve the poor,
To spread God's Knowledge from door to door.

This is the teaching of Siva Divine,
O, let it enter this heart of mine.

To sing with joy, his glorious Name,
Without any fear, without any shame,
To love the Lord with all our soul,
To take him as our only goal.

This is the teaching of Siva Divine,
This is the teaching of Siva Divine,
This is the teaching of Siva Divine.
O, Let it enter this heart of mine.

To sit serene and calm and still,
And try the vicious mind to kill,
To merge in him within the heart,
Never to think him ever apart.

This is the teaching of Siva Divine…

This two-fold celebration of Guru Purnima and Pujya Swami Sahajananda’s 100th birth anniversary, is indeed a unique occasion in the annals of the history of Divine Life Society of South Africa. No doubt this is an awe-inspiring, rare and spiritually potent occasion, when the calendar aligns itself to bring together two major spiritual observances on the same day. For devotees, this convergence can be considered highly sacred and transformative, offering an unparalleled opportunity for Sadhana, spiritual growth, merit, and inner purification. The rare confluence of these two major spiritual events in our calendar on one day is not merely a calendrical coincidence, but a celestial invitation to us all to immerse ourselves in the divine. For the devotee, it represents a window of Divine Grace-a moment to pause, purify, and forge ahead on the path of spiritual evolution

This celebration created a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for devotees to honour the Guru-principle while commemorating the life of a living embodiment of that high ideal-Sri Swami Sahajananda. Both occasions individually radiate spiritual potency. Their confluence creates a spiritually charged atmosphere that magnify the blessings, merit, and inner transformation for all who observe and celebrate it, and is an ideal time for introspection, prayer, and re-commitment to the Guru’s teachings. While Guru Purnima celebrates the eternal Guru-Shishya (teacher-disciple) tradition, Sri Swami Sahajananda’s Birth Centenary embodies its living continuity. The event serves as a bridge between tradition and contemporary relevance, inspiring future generations to walk the spiritual path boldly and with conviction. The confluence serves as a powerful reminder of what is possible when a life is surrendered to a higher cause. Sri Swami Sahajananda’s life exemplifies humility, Seva (service), and devotion to the Guru, making this observance not only a celebration, but a call to action. This sacred confluence is not merely a coincidence, nay, it is a divine orchestration, offering devotees an unmatched spiritual moment. It encourages deeper devotion to the Guru, renewed spiritual resolve, gratitude for divine guidance, and the celebration of a century of spiritual legacy. It is a milestone in time, etched not just in calendars, but in the hearts of those who recognise the rare blessing of walking the path under the light of a true Guru-an occasion that we will have to wait another hundred years, if at all possible, to experience.

May the blessings of Sri Swami Sivananda and Pujya Swami Sahajananda be upon us all.

The 20th Anniversary of Sivananda Ghat, the 76th Anniversary of Divine Life Society of South Africa and Ganga Dussehra were jointly celebrated at Sivanandashram, Reservoir Hills on Thursday, 5 June 2025. Ganga Arati commenced at 5.30pm followed by Satsang. The Satsang programme comprised a message from the Society, readings, Pujya Swami Sahajananda’s audio message, a DVD on Mother Ganga, Kirtans, Bhajans and the Ganga Chalisa. 

The message from the Society paid tribute to our Divine Master, Sri Swami Sivananda, to Pujya Swami Sahajananda, and to all devotees, donors, well-wishers and volunteers, for their sterling contributions and selfless service over the past 76 years. The following relevant excerpts attest to these. “On this the 76th Anniversary of Divine Life Society of South Africa, we offer our humble obeisance to Sri Gurudev and Pujya Swamiji for their Divine Grace and blessings in providing us with this magnificent Ashram, and for rescuing us from the trammels of worldly life so that we may grow in spirituality, and work out some of our past Karma in this birth.

“We offer our deep gratitude and appreciation to Sri Gurudev and Pujya Swamiji, for their visionary leadership in providing us with the unique facilities at our Sivananda Ghat, which was inaugurated exactly 20 years ago today. The Sivananda Ghat is providing great comfort and solace to bereaved families, giving them the opportunity to perform their religious duties to the departed in a dignified and safe manner, lending itself to closure as well. Over the last 20 years, in excess of 41 690 ash disposals and 11 270 rituals have been completed at the Sivananda Ghat since inception”. At the Sivananda Ghat, Ganga Arati was performed daily at 10am from 1 to 5 June 2025 and lamps on boats were floated to mark the 20th Anniversary of Sivananda Ghat.

In respect of Ganga Dussehra, the message from the Society highlighted its spiritual significance, as is evident in, “Today marks Ganga Dussehra as well, and we offer our humble obeisance to Mother Ganga on this auspicious day, marking her descent to the earth plane, where She continues to reside in the form of the River Ganga. Our eternal gratitude to Sri Gurudev and Pujya Swamiji for bringing Ganga Mata to South Africa in the form of our Ganga Ranis. Pujya Swamiji reminded us also that the Ganga River is only her physical form, and that Ganga Mata is a great Goddess. It is said that Mother Ganga places all the sins of man deposited in Her at the lotus feet of a saint. Sri Muniji of Parmath Niketan Ashram in Rishikesh, during his visit to our Ashram, stated that it is not that Swamiji brought Ganga Mata to South Africa, but rather that Ganga Mata came to Swami Sahajananda in South Africa”. 

Excerpts of our Divine Master’s letter dated 5 June 1951 to Pujya Swamiji requesting a branch of Divine Life Society be opened in this country, are reproduced herewith. Sri Gurudev said, “Words cannot adequately describe the sincerity of your devotion and your ardent zeal and enthusiasm to disseminate spiritual knowledge. Keep the Divine flame within you growing strong daily. May it guide the rest towards Eternal Bliss”. The Master continued, “An interesting feature in the spiritual path is that the world looks frightening to an aspirant at the outset; but, once he takes to chanting His Name and does total surrender unto Him, everything appears as His Lila. Having installed Him firmly in your heart, what is there to worry you? March boldly with majestic steps towards Him. There He stands to give you a warm welcome and to bless you with peace, joy and immortality”. 

In his handwritten instruction in the same letter, the Master said, “Kindly send a copy of your photo, postcard size in black and white. Kindly open a branch of DLS in South Africa and do some silent work”. 

Pujya Swamiji’s audio message focused on his relationship with the Master, his unconditional loyalty to Sri Gurudev and his instruction to open a branch in this country. He said to the Master that he should go back (while on a visit to Rishikesh) as he didn’t have the necessary qualifications, to which the Master replied, “They will come”.  He also alluded to the early beginnings of his spiritual life, when he went to the Umgeni Road Temple with his two friends and conducted the evening Satsangs, in some instances alone. The Master assured him that if he was sincere, then people will join him later on.  Pujya Swamiji was reluctant to open a branch, but the Master told him, “Don’t be rebellious”. Pujya Swamiji said that Sri Gurudev knew that he was trying to escape from his responsibilities. In 1949, Pujya Swamiji had asked for Sannyas initiation but the Master said, “Kindly wait. Please wait. Sannyas is made of sterner stuff”. Pujya Swamiji indicated that Grace of the Guru comes through an enormous amount of Tapas and unconditional loyalty. He went to Sri Gurudev with just one mission, and that was his desire to realise God. This assurance was given to Pujya Swamiji by both Sri Gurudev and Swami Ramdas. Pujya Swamiji’s unconditional love and devotion to Sri Gurudev are overwhelmingly evident in this short audio message.

The reading on Ganga Dussehra from Mother Ganga by Sri Swami Sivananda, traced the origins of Mother Ganga, the curse of Kapila, Bhagiratha’s penance and how Lord Siva received the Ganga. On the latter topic, Sri Gurudev said, “Again Bhagiratha did rigorous penance for a full hundred years. It is needless to say that Lord Siva, the protector of all His devotees, was immensely pleased with the king and readily accepted to check and control Ganga through His matted locks. With surge, fury and foam, Ganga began to descend from celestial regions. Flashes of lightening, thunders from clouds, and the uncontrollable flow seemed as if a deluge was about to devour the whole world. But Lord Siva coolly received Her in His matted locks and let Her drip over Him”.

The reading was complemented with a beautiful DVD on Mother Ganga, highlighting Her majestic beauty, prowess and Her protective nature over ardent devotees as the bestower of Bliss and joy. Goddess Ganga is considered a Divine Mother who blesses devotees with Grace, well-being, and prosperity.

The Ganga Chalisa, recited during the Satsang, is a devotional hymn of forty verses dedicated to Goddess Ganga. Personified as a Goddess and revered as a purifier of sins, the Ganga Chalisa seeks blessings, purification, and spiritual emancipation. The Ganga Chalisa begins with respectful salutations and praises of Goddess Ganga, having descended from the heavens to earth, flowing from the matted locks of Lord Shiva. Her Divine Nature is evident when Ganga is described as the source of purity and salvation. Her waters cleanse sins, cure diseases, and bring spiritual liberation to those who bathe in Her or even chant Her name. It also recounts mythological stories and its spiritual benefits when worshipping or remembering the sacred river with devotion, leading to the removal of sins and granting Moksha or liberation. It is also a call for devotion when the devotees ask Mother Ganga to remove their inner impurities, guide them towards righteousness, and bless their lives with peace, devotion, and spiritual prosperity. 

The three-fold celebration is indeed a unique occasion in the annals of the history of Divine Life Society of South Africa. No doubt this is a rare and spiritually potent occasion, when the calendar aligns to bring together three major spiritual observances on the same day, namely the 20th Anniversary of Sivananda Ghat, 76th Anniversary of Divine Life Society of South Africa and Ganga Dussehra. For devotees, this convergence can be considered highly sacred and transformative, offering them an unparalleled opportunity for Sadhana, spiritual growth, merit, and inner purification. The rare confluence of these three major spiritual events in our calendar on one day is not merely a calendrical coincidence, but a celestial invitation to immerse oneself in the divine. For the devotee, it represents a window of divine grace - a moment to pause, purify, and propel forward on the path of spiritual evolution.

The Sivananda Wisdom Group (SWG) was officially launched at Sivanandashram, Reservoir Hills, in October 2024. Its mission is to offer a welcoming platform where devotees, well-wishers, and members of the public may come together weekly. The Sivananda Wisdom Group plays an essential role in the spiritual and social lives of our seniors although there are no age restrictions for membership. Each week, members come together in fellowship to reflect on the rich heritage of Hindu Dharma and to try to live the teachings of our Divine Master, Sri Swami Sivananda and Pujya Swami Sahajananda. Further, the sacred teachings and enduring legacy of Sri Swami Sivananda and Pujya Swami Sahajananda are promoted.  The nurturing of spiritual, ethical, and moral values, promotion of basic life-skills and health awareness, and social and spiritual cohesion within the community are fostered. Since its first gathering on 2 October 2024, attendance has steadily grown to 34 members.
 

On Wednesday, 14 May 2025, a special Havan and Cultural Programme was held at 8.45am, commemorating the launch of the Sivananda Wisdom Group. The sacred chanting of Mantras by the Ashram’s two Pundits created a divine and uplifting atmosphere on a tranquil autumn morning. Approximately 55 attendees, including Sivananda Wisdom Group members, devotees, and special guests, participated in this spiritually enriching observance. 

 Following the Havan, a beautiful music session unfolded. Guest artiste Ravinath Maharaj rendered melodious Bhajans and Kirtans. His heartfelt and mellifluous singing was warmly received and appreciated. The Sivananda Wisdom Group’s Bhajan team leader also sang inspiring Kirtans and Bhajans, enhancing the devotional mood.
 

Among the distinguished attendees were Dr. Satya Prakash Khatana, a senior official from the Government of India, and his wife, Smt. Sharda. Dr. Khatana serves as the Additional Secretary in the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs in India. Smt. Sharda is a lawyer. Both guests expressed heartfelt appreciation and gratitude. Also in attendance was Dr. Tilly Moodley, Director of Quality Promotion and Assurance (QPA) at the University of KwaZulu-Natal. 
 

The programme concluded with breakfast, heartfelt camaraderie, and glowing appreciation from all who attended. After breakfast, guests visited the printing press and Sivananda Expo Centre which houses displays and artefacts of the Society’s history, related especially to the printing presses.