Om Namo Bhagavade Sivanandaya
Sivananda DLS
Divine Life Society of South Africa
Established in 1949 by Sri Swami Sivananda
News & Reports (345)
As an offering to our Divine Master, Sri Swami Sivananda, Lord Rama and Sri Hanuman, the 41 Day Sri Hanuman Chalisa recital will commence on Monday, 03 March 2025. The launch of the 41 day recital will take place on 03 March 2025 at Sivanandashram, Reservoir Hills. Ganga Arati commences at 5:30pm followed by 11 recitals of the Sri Hanuman Chalisa. The 41 day recital will culminate on the sacred Sri Hanuman Jayanti on 12 April 2025.
If you would like to participate in the 41 day recital, kindly complete the online pledge form below. All signed pledges will be offered at the Shrine on the day of the launch.
Divine Life Society of South Africa celebrated the auspicious Maha Kumbha Mela on Sunday, 2 February 2025 at its Sivananda International Cultural Centre, (SICC), La Mercy, as part of its Centenary Celebrations. The Maha Kumbha Mela is currently being observed in Prayagraj, India at the confluence of the sacred Ganga, Yamuna and the subterranean Saraswati rivers. It began on 13 January and ends on 26 February 2025. The Kumbha Mela, which takes place every 12 years on the banks of the holy Ganga River, the most sacred river in India, draws millions of pilgrims. This year marks the Maha or Purna Kumbh which occurs only once every 144 years, and we are truly blessed to see this in our lifetime. The number expected to attend this year is approximately 400 million – the largest gathering of human beings on the planet. Such is the power and glory of Mother Ganga! The origin of the Ganga is ascribed to celestial glory. Lord Krishna says in the Bhagavad Gita: “I am the Ganga among rivers”. For devotees, the Maha Kumbha Mela is an opportunity to wash away sins and gain spiritual merit (punya). The alignment of Jupiter, the sun and the moon during the festival is believed to amplify the sacredness and sanctity of the rivers, making them life-giving and soul-cleansing.
The programme on Sunday, 2 February 2025 comprised a morning Sadhana Programme which included a Ganga Havan and guest artistes from 6am to 8am. Ganga Arati and offering of Ganga Jal at the four sacred pools (Ganga, Yamuna, Saraswati and Bhagirathi) was from 8am to 9.50am. The Satsang began at 10am and concluded at 12.30pm.
Hundreds of devotees, members of the public, donors and well-wishers from all parts of the country converged at the serene and beautiful Sivananda International Cultural Centre for the morning Sadhana programme in Bhagirathi, which has cascading water features. Many came by buses arranged by local Hindu organisations. After the Invocation, soulful chants of sacred Mantras reverberated during the Ganga Havan, signifying purification, spiritual growth and connection with the divine. The divine energy was palpable and the atmosphere was electric with spiritual fervour.
Guest artiste, Archarya Rathna, Isaiselvamani V. Karthiegasen Pillay and his entourage rendered Kirtans and Bhajans in praise of Mother Ganga. His love-offering at this Maha Kumbha Mela added beauty, divinity and deep spirituality to the event.
Devotees offered Ganga Jal as oblations to the Divine. Colourful stalls with memorabilia, Ganga Jal, a water feature with banners and audio-visual educative material on the Maha Kumbha Mela and Mother Ganga, adorned the forecourt of the Main Prayer Hall, creating a sanctimonious atmosphere.
Sri Swami Sivananda, in the article “The Glory of Ganga” from the book, Mother Ganga, said, “For a Hindu, the word Ganga or Ganges has its own sacred association. Every Hindu thirsts for a dip in the Ganga, and for a drop of Her water at the time of his death. Aspirants and mendicants build their huts on the banks of the Ganga for practising penance and meditation. Bhishma spoke very highly of the glory of the Ganga in his parting instructions to the Pandavas from his bed of arrows. In the Satya Yuga, all places were sacred. In the Treta Yuga, Pushkara was considered the most holy place. In the Dvapara Yuga, Kurukshetra was regarded as the most sacred place. In Kali Yuga, Ganga has that glory. Devi Bhagavatam 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’.
“Ganga is known by various names like Bhagirathi (brought by Bhagiratha), Jahnavi (let out by Jahnu), etc. Sri Sankara, in his praise of Mother Ganga, accounts for Her origin thus: In the beginning, Ganga occupied the vessel (Kamandalu) in which Lord Brahma performed His daily ablution; then She flowed down washing the Feet of Lord Vishnu; and adorning the head of Lord Siva, finally She came down to the earth as the daughter of Jahnu”.
Pujya Swamiji’s message was pregnant with deep spiritual truths and profound advice to devotees. He focused on the importance of the Guru, faith and self-surrender, the Law of Karma, importance of Sadhana, namely Home Satsangs and God’s omnipotence and omnipresence. In highlighting the importance of faith and self-surrender, Pujya Swamiji questioned, “Suppose a calamity happens tomorrow, will we lose our faith? We will not, because we know that the whole universe is permeated by God”. Pujya Swamiji’s assurance in the following words is gratifying, “We in the Divine Life Society, who are disciples of Gurudev should never live in a state of fear or insecurity, because we have God by our side, and we have our Master by our side, and we can turn to him whenever we want”. Pujya Swamiji assured us that Home Satsangs and repetition of the Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra are sure to protect sincere devotees.
The Guest Speaker, The Honourable Consul General of India in Durban, Dr Thelma John David, alluded to the magnitude of the Kumbha Mela. She said that in the historical context, the Kumbha Mela was celebrated for centuries, connecting millions through shared spirituality. She also highlighted the link between South Africa and India through its rich heritage. She said that for Divine Life Society it is a trifecta of celebrations, as the Society is celebrating Sri Swami Sivananda’s Sannyas Centenary, Pujya Swamiji’s Birth Centenary and the 75th Anniversary of the Society. She commended the Society and Pujya Swamiji’s vision in bringing Mother Ganga to South Africa in the form of Ganga Ranis which are accessible to multitudes.
Kriti Lalla from the Kala Darshan Institute of Classical Music and Dance presented two well executed Kathak dance items in honour of Mother Ganga. Her outstanding performances were graceful, professionally executed and an apt offering to the Divine Mother.
The video on the origin and significance of the Maha Kumbha Mela, aptly captured this mammoth event, and alluded to man’s attempt to attain Moksha through a process of purification by taking a holy dip in the sacred rivers. Vivid visuals and narratives brought to life the atmosphere, ambience, emotions and energy of this event – the largest gathering on the planet.
Of significance is that the Maha Kumbha Mela is not just a religious festival but a symbol of faith, devotion, and cultural heritage. It showcases the spiritual depth of Hinduism and the enduring power of tradition, attracting people from all over the world. On an esoteric level, it has deep spiritual significance for us all, of purification, cleansing – physical, mental and spiritual, a journey of the soul towards enlightenment and spiritual growth. The hundreds who visited Sivananda International Cultural Centre have truly benefited. The nectar of Ganga Rani, the refreshing Bhagirathi, the awe-inspiring Yamuna and Saraswati are sure to have touched the inner fibre of many, who in some small way, have felt the presence of the Divine Mother in her pristine and celestial beauty.
The Swami Sahajananda Community Centre in Forderville, Estcourt was the venue for the launch of Pujya Swami Sahajananda’s Birth Centenary Celebrations on Sunday, 26 February 2025. The event was hosted by the Society’s Estcourt Branch. The day’s programme commenced at 8am with Havan, followed by breakfast. A special “Lamp Lighting Ceremony” commenced at 9.15am, followed by Ganga Arati at 9.30am and Satsang at 10am. The Satsang programme comprised Kirtans, Bhajans, Pujya Swami Sahajananda’s audio message, a message from the Society, cultural items, an address by the Mayor of Umtshezi Municipality, the release of a special brochure and a dance item.
The precincts of the Gayatri Mandir and the Sri Swami Sahajananda Community Centre were enveloped in the soulful Mantra chants of the sacred Havan. Representatives of various local Hindu organisations participated in the Havan, which set the tone and created an appropriate ambience for the auspicious launch of Pujya Swamiji’s Birth Centenary Celebrations in Estcourt, the town of Pujya Swami Sahajananda’s birth. Coincidentally, Pujya Swamiji’s 100th birth anniversary this year coincides with the sacred Sri Guru Purnima on 10 July 2025. Indeed, a celestial alignment of great importance and relevance to devotees.
The lighting of 100 diyas (lamps), with the rendition of the Sivananda Arati, was both symbolic and a memorable moment. The audience witnessed, in rapt attention, a unique happening, which signified the presence of divinity, knowledge, wisdom, purity and perfection – all that Pujya Swamiji embodied and personified.
Pujya Swamiji’s audio message gave succinct instructions for self-transformation. He explained that Sri Gurudev taught that we should see divinity in animate and inanimate objects also. Pujya Swamiji said, “However difficult it is, we should try to see God, not only in the forms that are living and moving, but also in inert forms”. He explained that we should see goodness in all and spread positivity, rather than hatred and negativity. If there is hatred and animosity, then it is indicative of something being wrong in one’s Sadhana. We must change our angle of vision for spiritual growth. When one complained to Sri Gurudev, Sri Aurobindo and Sri Swami Yogananda, they all asked the complainant to introspect and make an effort to change. They emphasised self-transformation and did not call in the other person. The message was pregnant with a deep and profound spiritual message for inner reflection, deep self-transformation and Sadhana for spiritual growth.
The message from Divine Life Society of South Africa provided a succinct insight into Pujya Swamiji’s life and legacies, his contributions to the spiritual, social, poverty-alleviation, and educational welfare of all, as well as his humanitarian contributions and initiatives. The focus of the message was on our roles and responsibilities, in order to sustain Pujya Swamiji’s legacies. The following excerpts from the message find resonance in this regard.
“Today, we are all beneficiaries of this immense spiritual legacy if we choose to embrace it. The keys to accessing this wealth are faith, obedience, loyalty, devotion, and a strong desire for spiritual growth. To honour a great soul like Pujya Swamiji, we must practise his teachings, chief amongst which are unconditional self-surrender and obedience. He taught that perfect obedience equates to perfect self-surrender, and that it surpasses mere reverence. By adhering to simple principles in our daily lives, be it at home, on the road, or at work, we can enhance our existence. He emphasised that ‘Obedience is the most important law of life’, urging us to observe health rules, road traffic rules, the rules of establishments and institutions, and to reflect on our daily shortcomings.
“Our Divine Master's writings will guide us on this journey. Merely associating with a saint or an ashram is insufficient; we must embody the values taught by our Master, namely serve, love, give, purify and meditate, and live a Divine Life prioritising God. Pujya Swamiji exemplified faith and self-surrender, a theme captured in his first book published in 1996. The title is, Faith and Self-Surrender. … Pujya Swamiji revealed that the insights within came directly from Sri Gurudev as he typed the script without drafts. This booklet promises inspiration for all readers amid life's challenges”.
The Spiritual Darlings’ cultural item, “Pujya Swamiji Says”, comprised enactments of some of Pujya Swamiji’s simple, child-like, yet potent messages that appealed to children and adults. This item was concluded with a musical rendition highlighting the Divine Personality of Pujya Swamiji, the ideal disciple of our Divine Master, Sri Swami Sivananda.
We were fortunate that the sacred launch programme took place within the period of the Maha Kumbha Mela. In observance of this, a delightful and symbolic dance traced the origin of Mother Ganga and Her physical route throughout India, and finally to South Africa, brought here by the grace of Sri Gurudev and Pujya Swamiji. Lord Buddha, Sri Swami Sivananda and Paramhansa Sri Ramakrishna too are honoured for they served Ganga Mata as she Graced Bodhgaya, Rishikesh and Calcutta with Her presence. In the dance item, Pujya Swami Sahajananda, who was compared to King Bhagirath by Sri Swami Sivananda in 1955, is acknowledged for bringing Ganga Rani to South Africa. Knowing how Ganga Mata willingly left Her heavenly abode to save the sons of King Sagar, Sri Gurudev and Pujya Swamiji, wanted to save all of us, their own children. They therefore, convinced Ganga Rani to extend Herself from the heavenly Himalayan peaks of Rishikesh to Southern Africa. The dance re-lives Ganga Rani’s journey from heaven, through the various Ashrams in India, to South Africa. Executed in a professional and entertaining manner, the colourful item added to the divinity and sanctity of the occasion.
The Mayor of Umtshezi, the Honourable Mr Lymon Shelembe, in his address, reflected on his association with Pujya Swami Sahajananda, who built the Sivananda Celukuphiwa School in 2002. He indicated that learners took their lessons under trees prior to Pujya Swamiji’s magnanimous gift to the community. The school has subsequently excelled, having created the foundation for several doctors, engineers and teachers. He recalled that when he was seriously ill, Pujya Swamiji sent him Agnihotra ash, to which he attributed his miraculous recovery. The mayor’s reverence and admiration for Pujya Swamiji were overtly evident in his address.
Of great significance in the Satsang programme was the release of our Centenary Brochure, Sri Swami Sivananda’s Ideal Disciple, a 64-page book, encapsulating the life and legacy of Sri Swami Sivananda and Sri Swami Sahajananda. The message read at the release ceremony, was an apt account of Pujya Swamiji’s greatness, humility and unconditional devotion to our Master, Sri Swami Sivananda. The following excerpts of the message pay credence to this theme.
“One of the forms of our Divine Master’s Grace in this country is beloved Pujya Swami Sahajananda. This Grace manifested and continues to manifest at every step of our inner journey. This will become apparent as you go through the pages of the 100th Birth Anniversary Brochure. You will feel the Grace flowing through every word and every act of Pujya Swamiji’s matchless surrender to the Divine Master. One can only turn to our Divine Master and say: ‘Lord, at every step, we thank Thee for Thy Golden Grace of bequeathing beloved Pujya Swamiji to us’. And that is the story of the life of Pujya Swami Sahajananda, that is the story of Divine Life Society of South Africa, and more poignantly, that is the story of the inner journey of all his devotees.
“Sri Swami Sahajananda’s silent dynamism, magnetic personality and contributions are again evident in Sri Swami Sivananda’s words at Pujya Swamiji’s farewell after his initiation into the holy order of Sannyas on 10 April 1956. The Master said, ‘Swami Sahajananda is styled as the spiritual king of South Africa, Durban. He is also called African Chota Guru. He does not want anything. He is a silent worker. He is a man of renunciation, Vairagya (dispassion) and meditation. He is a very good organiser. He talks little. You have never seen him talking. He thinks much and does much. Such a spiritual Yogi is he. His devotion to his teacher is unique. He has a pure heart. So let us pray for the health of this small Yogi, full of strength. One who can transform the materialistic intellect of the whole of South Africa; what tremendous purity, what tremendous Yogic power, what tremendous meditation and spiritual aura.
“This publication highlights the life and teachings of Pujya Swamiji, his Guru Bhakti and his total surrender to his Guru, Sri Swami Sivananda. We trust that the articles in this brochure will inspire us to grow in our surrender to the Master and kindle a deep spiritual yearning for the Divine. One can see from the initiatives outlined in the brochure that Pujya Swamiji, as Spiritual Head of Divine Life Society of South Africa, was steadfastly focused on spiritual transformation and realisation, not only for Himself, but also for all devotees and seekers. Every ounce of his energy, every drop of his blood, every thought, every feeling and every sensation, every fibre of his being, went towards the achievement of that goal. We owe him a deep debt of gratitude for this shower of Divine Grace and for making manifest in this country the spiritual writings and vision of our Divine Master, Sri Swami Sivananda".
The launch of Pujya Swami Sahajananda’s Birth Centenary in his home-town of Estcourt was a fitting tribute to this gentle spiritual giant of South Africa. What is the significance of this great occasion for us, you and I? The following words from the brochure release message find resonance, and are a stark reminder to us all: “That we celebrate Pujya Swamiji’s 100th Birth Anniversary this year, and that we will be celebrating many more of his birthdays in future, makes us reminisce, and take cognisance of our own spiritual growth, our commitment to the Mission, our Guru Bhakti and our responsibility towards sustaining Pujya Swamiji’s legacy beyond his centenary celebrations. We can do these by practising Sri Gurudev’s and Pujya Swamiji’s teachings, by increasing our Sadhana, serving the Society unflinchingly. What else? We should study the messages diligently. Precious spiritual jewels are contained in these messages. After a concentrated study let us dive deep within. All the saints and sages tell us that inside each one of us, there is a wealth beyond measure. Let us find that wealth and emulate Pujya Swamiji by enjoying the stupendous peace of God”
The 17th Mahasamadhi Anniversary (as per the Sanskrit Calendar) of Pujya Swami Sahajananda, was held on Monday, 2 December 2024 at Sivanandashram, Reservoir Hills. Ganga Arati commenced at 5.30pm followed by Satsang. The Satsang programme comprised Kirtans, Bhajans, Pujya Swami Sahajananda’s audio message and readings of two letters from Sri Swami Sivananda to Pujya Swami Sahajananda.
The esteem that Sri Swami Sivananda held Pujya Swamiji in, is evident in the letters read at the Satsang. Excerpts from the two letters are reproduced below. The following are excerpts from the letter dated 13th August 1956:
“I am reproducing a few lines from a letter received from Sri Albrecht Lewald of Pretoria:
‘The last few weeks were impressive with Sri Srinivasan’s presence and delivering his unique experiences from India. Sitting and listening to his stories of our spiritual abode and its ‘princeps maximus’ has given us a tremendous zeal. Our young Saint has been so kind in letting me question him on many points, especially meditation and Guru’s importance for the aspirant….Our Pretoria Group was present at the opening of the Hillbrow Branch. Swami Srinivasan spoke with convincing dignity and sincerity. Am admiring and loving my young Gurubhai who strikes me as the saintliest person I have ever met in my life’.
“This is not the first letter. All the letters I get from South Africa, Mombasa, Nairobi, contain pages on your glory and the great impression you have created among the devotees. It is all due to the Grace of the Lord and the purity you have attained through Para Bhakti. When you advance in Sadhana, there is a marvellous, mysterious POWER coming from every bit of your action and word. May you gloriously prosper.
“Kindly help the Johannesburg Branch. Sri Gita Obel and Sri Lorna Retief need your support and help and encouragement. You may send them the surplus books if you have from your stock for the Library. Take great care of your health. Be in close touch with your Divine Father, Sri S.R. Padayachie. May God bless you all.
With Prem and OM,
Thy Own Self,
Sivananda
Be bold and cheerful always!”
In the letter dated 27th August 1958, the Master wrote:
“In this formidable ocean of Samsara you have only one boat to voyage to the other shore of Immortality, the Company of Sages.
Strengthen your resolves. Regularity, tenacity and fixity in Sadhana are essential. Record Sadhana in a Spiritual Diary daily. Renew it every moment and correct your failures.
This ego is your terrible enemy. It wages guerrilla warfare with you. Beware. Beware.
Take delight in the joys of other people, in making them happy.
Intense and concentrated effort is demanded in the self-discipline towards righteousness, and Self-realisation.
Take care of your health, Sahaja. Have abundant rest. Do not overwork. You are an asset for D.L.S. South Africa and the whole world”.
Pujya Swamiji’s audio message was deeply relevant to ardent devotees and to serious aspirants. He urged us to practise Sadhana in earnest. He said, “So you too can utilise every minute in the bus, while you are driving the car, a pause in the work, you repeat the Mantra. Every time you repeat it, an impression is formed in the mind”. Gradually the Mantra will begin repeating itself in one’s mind, indicative that spiritual progress is taking place. Pujya Swamiji emphasised the importance of correct posture in Sadhana. “Initially, pain will be magnified. However, one should try and fix the mind on God, so as to quell the mind. Gradually the body, its aches and pains will be forgotten, that is, a move from the gross to the mental”. Pujya Swamiji was emphatic that repetition of God’s Name is of paramount importance. He said, “No one can stop you from repeating God’s Name”.
Although no longer in their physical presence, Sri Gurudev’s and Pujya Swamiji’s omnipresence and omnipotence guide the work of the Society and all devotees.
We pray that our Divine Master’s, Sri Swami Sivananda’s and Pujya Swami Sahajananda’s Grace, guidance and protection are forever upon us, for our spiritual growth and development.
Our Divine Master, Sri Swami Sivananda, sent three letters to Sri V Srinivasan (later Sri Swami Sahajananda) to start a branch of Divine Life Society in this country. These were sent on 18 October 1949, 11 November 1949 and 5 June 1951. Therefore, one of the 75th Anniversaries of Divine Life Society of South Africa was celebrated on Monday, 11 November 2024 at Sivanandashram, Reservoir Hills. The programme comprised Kirtans, Bhajans, an extract from a DVD entitled Wisdom of Sivananda, an audio message by Pujya Swami Sahajananda, Spiritual Head of the Society, and the reading of two letters relevant to the occasion, sent by Sri Swami Sivananda to Pujya Swamiji (Pujya Swami Sahajananda).
The Divine Master’s letters containing direct instructions to Pujya Swami Sahajananda were meticulously preserved by Pujya Swamiji. These letters have now, post Pujya Swamiji’s Mahasamadhi in December 2007, been published by the Society in a series entitled Priceless Jewels. Excerpts of the two letters read at the Satsang, are reproduced below. The first reading bears Sri Gurudev’s instruction to Pujya Swamiji to open a branch of Divine Life Society in South Africa.
“11th November, 1949
Sri V. Srinivasan
DURBAN
Beloved Atman.
Salutations and adorations. Om Namo Narayana.
Thy kind letter of 13 October.
Lust and pride are the root of all human ills. They are the enemies of peace and are the parents of all the host of evils. Get up in the morning and meditate on the havoc that these bring about in man’s life. These two alone cause man’s subjections to the wheel of Samsara.
If you bring yourself up to feeling that they drain out your vitality – physical and mental – and that for your own good, you should eradicate them, then conquest of these two foes will be an easy affair. Resort to His Lotus Feet. He will help you.
May God help you!
Thy Own Self,
Sivananda
Handwritten
Kindly open the branch of Divine Life Society at once.
Do some silent work.
Sivananda”
Excerpts of the letter dated 21 September 1955 appear below:
“Kindly take great care of all the workers of the Durban Centre. They are all Dynamic Yogis, who have lost their body-consciousness. I wish all glory, Divine Wisdom, Good health and long life to all of them. One day I will be able to meet them all….
Your visit to Ananda Kutir in January 1st week is the happiest news to me and all the inmates of the Ashram. Cordial greetings. You have selected the finest period - winter - very pleasant for silent Sadhana. This will be a wonderful period in your life - all Bliss and Inspiration….
Yes, when you return to South Africa, you may take Swami Chidanandaji. I will give you some Movie films of the Ashram activities and songs and messages to the people of Africa through recording Tapes. That will be a great help to you for future work”.
Pujya Swami Sahajananda, in his audio message on the centenary birthday celebrations of Sri Swami Sivananda, paid glowing tributes to the Master’s compassion, benevolence and all-pervading presence in all aspects of the Society’s operations. Addressing the Master in the first person, Pujya Swamiji alluded to the Master’s complete control of Pujya Swamiji’s life, work and spiritual journey. He said that he had no intention to begin an Ashram, handle money and be a Spiritual Head. However, the Master willed otherwise, as is evident in his profound words to Pujya Swamiji, “Don’t reject and don’t long for anything”, and that if you take care of his Mission, then he will take care of you. Referring to the Master’s all-pervading nature, Pujya Swamiji said, “who can resist your will, none can!.....you created the Ashram….all praise and all blame should go to him”. In respect of starting an Ashram, Pujya Swamiji said that Sri Gurudev realised God and then began an Ashram. However, in Pujya Swamiji’s case, the Master willed that Pujya Swamiji begins an Ashram and then aspire for God-realisation. The talk was pregnant with Pujya Swamiji’s unconditional loyalty to the master, as his spiritual aspirations were willed by Gurudev.
Sri Swami Sivananda’s message on the glory of Karma Yoga, played on the DVD entitled, Wisdom of Sivananda Volume 2, brought forth the profound message of unconditional service in the form of Karma Yoga. This message was apt, for Pujya Swami Sahajananda’s entire life was devoted to Karma Yoga, as encapsulated in the Master’s cryptic instruction to him, “Learn to type and to make tea”. One of the cornerstones and hallmarks of Divine Life Society of South Africa during its existence over the 75 years, is unconditional service, irrespective of religion – one of Sri Swami Sivananda’s cardinal doctrines.
Divine Life Society of South Africa celebrated its 75th Anniversary in 2024. What do the next 75 years bode for the Society? If we follow the instructions and guidance of Pujya Swamiji, the Society is sure to rise to greater heights. The tenacity, resilience, unconditional Guru Bhakti of Pujya Swami Sahajananda, his leonine and iron courage, his grit, steadfast will, and his sheer passion and determination to spread the Master’s teachings in South Africa and beyond, will see the Society on its continued trajectory – to serve, love, give, purify, meditate and realise.
As the 75th year draws to a close, may we all resolve to continue Pujya Swamiji’s legacies in South Africa and beyond, with the teachings of our Divine Master, Sri Swami Sivananda as the compass.
The 17th Mahasamadhi Anniversary of Pujya Swami Sahajananda was observed at Sivanandashram, Reservoir Hills on Tuesday, 10 December 2024. A morning Sadhana programme was held from 6am until 6.25am, after which devotees had Darshan at Sahaja Kutir, Pujya Swamiji’s sacred room and the Sivananda-Sahajananda Diamond Jubilee Centre. Hundreds of devotees, well-wishers and donors attended Ganga Arati which commenced at 5pm followed by Satsang. The Satsang programme comprised Kirtans, Bhajans, reading of two letters from Sri Swami Sivananda to Pujya Swamiji, a DVD entitled, Memories of a Divine Sage, and a Mahasamadhi Anniversary address.
Sri Gurudev wrote several letters to Pujya Swamiji, who filed these meticulously. These letters have now been published by Divine Life Society of South Africa in a series entitled, Priceless Jewels. Excerpts of two of the letters which were read at the Satsang, indicative of the Master’s encouragement to Pujya Swamiji, and his love and praise for Pujya Swamiji, are reproduced herewith. In the letter dated 3 October 1953, the Master wrote:
“Thy kind and loving flowers to hand. Grateful thanks. How kind you are! Your posters are doing wonderful awakening!
Proceed upon the path of Yoga gradually and steadily. Nothing can be achieved overnight. Steady practice will surely bestow great blessings in the long run.
Spiritual life is practical from the beginning to end. The love for the ideal should be single-minded and whole-hearted. Self-control and Self-realisation is the message of Indian sages.
Dedicate all your actions to God and you can escape from the contamination of evil. Feel that God is ever with you and always work in the company of God.
Turn inward the energy and interest which had long been devoted to external pursuits and through this energy discover the soul, uncover the divine knowledge within, which has been covered or enveloped by ignorance.
May the Divine Flame grow brighter and brighter in you! May you enjoy the bliss of the eternal!”
On 6 March 1961, Sri Swami Sivananda in his letter to Sri Swami Sahajananda wrote:
“The South African branch, Durban is making wonderful progress in all spheres, publications, buildings, etc.
Very shortly there will be another duplicate of the headquarters in every respect. The will of the Lord is working through you to work out a grand plan in the near future.
I get glorious accounts of your activities from different quarters very frequently. Also, visitors to the Ashram from Africa endorse the views conveyed through letters.
I am glad that your financial condition is getting sound. It is very essential for steady progress and dynamic work.
In spite of hardships now and then in your personal Sadhana you are able to balance yourself. It is Divine Grace and Kripa. Never shall anyone engaged in good work ever have a fall. The Lord protects His devotees like the mother who protects her newborn babe.
Draw strength, power and inspiration from meditation. Wear the armour of Viveka-Vairagya. Rest peacefully in the Self.
May Lord bless you, all your members and all your works and bring them to glorious success!”
The DVD entitled, Memories of a Divine Sage, contained a beautiful address by Pujya Swamiji as well as his salient messages, filmed at the Guru Purnima Satsang on 27 July 2003. Pujya Swamiji encouraged all to sign the pledge forms and do their spiritual practices, so as to get spiritual progress and bliss. He said, “We have to concentrate on God and we will get the peace that we want”. Pujya Swamiji spoke about the glory of renunciation and faith, and mentioned appropriate anecdotes. He further advised, “So try to follow all the rules and keep God’s Name always on your lips, and try to attend all the functions, Ganga Arati and so on”. He thanked all devotees, both householders and renunciants for their exemplary work, and also alluded to the enormous impact of Sri Gurudev’s literature, namely the Peace Series on the South African community.
Amongst the messages by Pujya Swamiji in the DVD, were:
- “Do not be discouraged even if you suffer repeated failures”,
- “Ram Nam will be your strength and solace at all times”,
- “Only when one gives happiness to others, can one expect happiness in return”,
- “Everything regarding our Master’s mission in this country, has been ordained by the Master himself. Even now he is controlling and looking after everything”,
- “If one has faith and devotion to the Master, one can easily note his Grace”,
- “So valuable is the dissemination of spiritual knowledge, it is the highest service that one can render, because it can take people to God, which is the goal of this human birth”, and
- “When God protects, nothing can happen. Being always calm and unaffected by criticisms, insults, setbacks, trials, etc. is one of the best forms of giving – to repay our debt of gratitude to our Master…”.
Professor Vimolan Mudaly, in a Mahasamadhi address, paid rich tribute to one of the greatest of spiritual sons of South Africa, and arguably, the world. Excerpts from the address appear below:
“South Africans and the world alike would never know how fortunate we were when on the 10th of July 1925 there appeared in a little country town called Estcourt, a baby named Vijayaragaveloo Srinivasan Naidoo. We were not there, but the heavens must have reverberated with so much joy. The name "Vijayaragaveloo" is a combination of several components that demonstrates the earliest signs of Swamiji’s divine nature. When one looks at the onomatology of Swamiji’s name, Vijaya, Raga and Veloo, we note that Vijayaragaveloo could be interpreted as one who, like Siva or Vishnu, is victorious, here and hereafter, in establishing harmony and emotional expression among devotees and mankind in general, just like the divine power of Lord Muruga's Vel”.
Referring to Sri Gurudev’s accolades on Pujya Swamiji’s Sannyas initiation, and to Pujya Swamiji’s supreme sacrifice, Guru Bhakti and love for the Master, Prof Mudaly said, “On the 10th of April 1956, Swamiji became Swami Sahajananda. That was the day Swami Sivananda extended an invitation to all of us to become his devotees. What an ideal conduit Swamiji was, is, and will always be! On this day in 1956, Gurudev described how the Devas rained flowers down on earth. Swamiji attained the highest state of Samadhi at such an early stage, and there was no need to continue with such rigorous tapas. But for us, Swamiji sacrificed his physical-self so that we too may progress on the spiritual path. This is a wonderful time for us to engage in deep reflective practice. Our salvation will come through our own practice and mountains of Guru’s Grace. Gurudev’s Name and Mission are far greater than our own lives, our fame, our own fortunes. To Swamiji, Gurudev always came first. his Guru Bhakti was unquestionable and can be equated to the love that Lord Hanuman had for Lord Rama. Who Swamiji was, we may never know, but we do know that he was indeed a supreme being that traversed this earth, and we were so, so fortunate to have been in his midst. Gurudev and Swamiji must always be placed first”.
The following is a poignant pointer to our roles and responsibilities in perpetuating Pujya Swamiji’s legacies as espoused by Prof Mudaly: “The epitome of humility, the angel of compassion, the personification of loyalty, the embodiment of love and devotion, the quintessence of selfless dedication, and the incarnation of complete surrender and obedience to his Master! These are the inherent qualities that Swamiji taught and these are the qualities we must develop. Swamiji came to teach, to guide, to lead our souls to a higher place. We resist through our attitudes and our actions. This is important. A Guru’s legacy is dependent on the devotees he leaves behind to continue his work. Gurudev had so many. Let us each introspect and become a champion for Swamiji’s mission. Gurudev’s name and Swamiji’s name must come before our desires and needs. That is our surrender”.
Pujya Swamiji left his mortal body 17 years ago. His shining light, leadership, unflinching dedication and Guru Bhakti, are cornerstones which should guide us in our spiritual quest. We should remember that the Guru is the bridge to the divine. Sri Gurudev said, "A true disciple seeks not to measure the Guru’s wisdom but to absorb it fully”. Let us all, through devotion and unconditional Guru Bhakti to the Sri Gurudev and Pujya Swamiji, aspire to and tread the path of Bhakti, self-transformation, and achieve spiritual growth and liberation.
The most beautiful Sat-Chit-Ananda Temple in Fernwood, Newcastle was the venue for the Society’s 18th programme in the Sivananda Centenary Celebrations’ series of events. The Sivananda Centenary Celebrations’ Tour saw Satsangs in Kimberley, Port Shepstone, Howick and Newcastle, in addition to Branch Satsangs. The programme in Newcastle on Sunday, 10 November 2024 comprised a Havan at 8.30am, Ganga Arati at 9.30am and Satsang at 10am. The Satsang programme comprised Kirtans and Bhajans by both Divine Life Society of South Africa and the Sat-Chit-Ananda Temple Society, a message from the Society, a Ramayana Recital, a talk on Swami Sivananda’s cardinal teachings, guided meditation, and the benefits of Mantra chanting.
Sri Krishen Singh, Founder Trustee of the Mandir, in his welcome address, paid glowing tributes to Sri Swami Sivananda, Pujya Swami Sahajananda and the Society. He acknowledged the contributions of the Society to the Mandir during its formative stages, as Divine Life Society of South Africa supported the Mandir financially. The Society also provided infrastructure assistance with the Mandir’s domes, tiling and the Siva-Ganga pool. The Society therefore has a cordial and long-standing relationship with the Mandir.
The message from the Society traced the life and teachings of Sri Swami Sivananda, the illustrious work done by Pujya Swami Sahajananda in promoting and preserving Hindu values, and our glorious Hindu Dharma in South Africa. In respect of Pujya Swamiji’s contributions, the message read, “The story of the Divine Life Society of South Africa is inextricably bound to the life of Sri Swami Sahajananda of South Africa, affectionately known as Pujya Swamiji, who breathed life into every facet of the Society’s work in the 58 years during which he was Spiritual Head. He grew the organisation to 7 Ashrams and 18 Branches/Prayer Groups countrywide. Today we have an 8th Ashram in Buccleuch, Sandton, Gauteng. In 1956, on Swami Sahajananda’s arrival at Swami Sivananda’s Ashram in Rishikesh, he met the Divine Master on his way to the office that morning. Joyously welcoming him, the Master said ‘Oh! You are doing the work of Avataras’”.
The following excerpt from the message gives an insight into the association between the Mandir and the Society, “Divine Life society of South Africa and Sat-Chit-Ananda Temple Society have a very close and long-standing relationship. We know that at the very sacred spot where our Ganga Mata resides in this Mandir, is where Pujya Swamiji sat when he visited this Mandir about 2 decades ago. We feel a great sense of gratitude to the officials of the Mandir for the sincerity with which they administer the operations at this Mandir, and for having consecrated a Ganga Rani Shrine here in the Midlands of KwaZulu-Natal. Your work in upholding and propagating our glorious Hindu Dharma is most praiseworthy. We pray that Sat-Chit-Ananda Temple Society grows from strength to strength in all its activities”.
The guided meditation gave the congregation insights into techniques in meditation, its benefits and a practical guide to its practice. This was complemented by glimpses into benefits of Mantra chanting, namely: physiological benefits, raising vibrations, meditative aid, focus and concentration, stress and anxiety relief, as well as spiritual benefits - when one connects with the Divine or higher self, and increases spiritual growth and self-transformation. Techniques of Mantra chanting and how to choose a Mantra, were also discussed. The following well-known Mantras were alluded to: Om Namah Shivaya, Sri Ram Jaya Ram Jaya Jaya Ram Om, Om Namo Narayana, the Maha Mantra, Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra and Gayatri Mantra, to name just a few, with the intention that members of the public begin the practice of Mantra chanting.
A talk on Sri Swami Sivananda’s cardinal teachings focused on Sadhana, meditation, prayer, benefits of Satsang and the power of prayer. On prayer, Sri Swami Sivananda said, “Prayer elevates the mind. It fills the mind with purity. It is associated with the praise of God. It keeps the mind in tune with God. Prayer can reach a realm where reason dares not enter. It can take you to the Spiritual Realm or Kingdom of God. It frees the devotee from the fear of death. It brings him nearer to God and makes him feel his essential, immortal and blissful nature”.
A summary of the Master’s views on the benefits of Satsang are:
- Satsang with Mahatmas, Sadhus and the Guru plays a tremendous part in the attainment of quick spiritual progress.
- It is the easiest and quickest means to change the minds of worldly persons towards the spiritual path and to thoroughly overhaul the vicious, wrong Samskaras.
- Satsang elevates the mind and fills it with Sattva or purity, and is the greatest of all purifiers and illuminators of man.
- Without Satsang, this mind which is filled with worldly impurities cannot be turned towards God.
- Satsang removes the darkness of ignorance and fills the mind with Vairagya or non-attachment or dispassion for worldly enjoyments. Satsang is the sun that dispels the cloud of ignorance. It forces one to lead a life divine and have strong conviction in the existence of God.
- The company of a saint remarkably hastens the growth of Sattvic virtues in the aspirant, and gives him strength to awaken the dormant powers, and to eradicate undesirable negative qualities and various defects.
- Satsang helps in the attainment of Moksha.
- Satsang is a formidable and impregnable fortress to protect the young aspirants from the temptations and the attacks of Maya.
- There is nothing so inspiring, elevating, solacing and delightful as Satsang.
Divine Life Society of South Africa extends congratulations to, and thanks the Mandir’s officials, its committee and devotees on a well-organised and an excellent Centenary Celebrations' function. We acknowledge with profound gratitude their hard work, diligence, dedication and commitment to ensuring that the message of our Sanatana Dharma and Divine Life go out to the community of Newcastle and surrounding towns. The extent that the Mandir went to in organising the function, bearing all costs, arranging all aspects of the Havan, Satsang, Ganga Arati, cooking, catering, décor, other services and community involvement, are hallmarks of efficiency and dedication to duty. The attention to detail, smooth execution of tasks and items, dignity with which devotees and members of the public conducted themselves, and the sanctified atmosphere of the Mandir, are really praiseworthy. The celebration was immensely spiritual and uplifting.
The distribution of our Master’s literature and teachings in Newcastle is helping to spread the message of Divine Life and our glorious Hindu Dharma, which we all need in this Kali Yoga. The bookstall with Swami Sivananda’s books, CDs with Kirtans, Bhajans and Mantras, picture frames and memorabilia, attracted interest. 
The Centenary Celebrations’ Tour function at the Sat-Chit-Ananda Temple was inspiring, soulful and spiritually elevating. We also express heartfelt appreciation and gratitude to the Mandir, its officials and the community of Newcastle for their hospitality, warmth, dedication, unwavering support and sincerity. The temple's serene atmosphere, beautiful murtis, sacred precincts, and timeless teachings provide a profound sense of peace and connection to the Divine. The visit for many felt like a journey inward, offering comfort, inspiration, spiritual sustenance and food for the soul. We are especially grateful to the officials of the Mandir, whose dedication ensures that the teachings, traditions and values of our glorious Hindu Dharma flourish. May the Mandir continue to be a source of light, spirituality, and unity for all who seek it.
Om Namo Bhagavade Sivanandaya
Sri Swami Sivananda
(1887 - 1963)
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