Om Namo Bhagavade Sivanandaya
Sivananda DLS
Divine Life Society of South Africa
Established in 1949 by Sri Swami Sivananda
News & Reports (382)
The final event in the Society’s Centenary Celebrations’ programme was hosted by the Sivananda Sunlit Path Centre on Sunday, 12 October 2025 at the Centre’s campus in Rose Heights, Arena Park, Chatsworth. Approximately 550 devotees, donors, well-wishers and members of the public attended the day’s programme that commenced at 8am with Homa, followed by stall visits and a tour of the Centre from 9am. Ganga Arati and Satsang were from 10.50am until 12.10pm.
The sacred Homa, performed to the chants of the Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra created a deeply spiritual ambience on this beautiful morning.
The tours of the Centre and stalls were excellently arranged and managed. The stalls and gardens were meticulously set up, and had an attractive and aesthetic appeal. The spectacular, educational tour of the pristine gardens offered a rare opportunity for devotees to appreciate and learn from nature. The focus on nature itself was fresh and inspirational. Closely linked to the nature theme were the demonstrations on manufacture of soya products. The natural healing exhibits, namely Homeopathy, Acupressure, Reflexology and Ayurveda were informative, educational and inspiring. The tour of the Computer Training Centre was indicative of the Centre’s community-centredness. These stalls and tours drew much interest and appreciation from the public.
Explanations on on-site rainwater harvesting (used to irrigate various seasonal organic crops), the various forms of gardening techniques, the development of a green house, natural composting and other eco-friendly initiatives, were novel and informative.
Hundreds of devotees and members of the public had the Darshan of Ganga Mata during Ganga Arati, for many a novel experience. The Satsang programme comprised a message on the Sunlit Path Centre and its activities and a message from the Society, as well as Kirtans and Bhajans. The message on the Centre traced its inception and growth. Relevant excerpts attest to this. “This is the last project that was initiated by Pujya Swami Sahajananda in 2006, whilst in his physical form. It was a response to the challenges faced by the youth. Two heart rending letters addressed to Swamiji from desperate mothers of children who had fallen prey to the scourge of addiction, were the catalyst that gave rise to the Sunlit Path Programme and subsequently the establishment of the Sivananda Sunlit Path Centre.
“Pujya Swamiji wrote, ‘The highlight of the complex will be the Sivananda Sunlit Club for children to educate them on how to keep away from drugs, gambling, sex etc. The most important instructions for Spiritual Darlings – Swamiji’s affectionate reference to children - will be how they should turn to God for protection against bad habits and that God is their true Friend, Mother and Father’.
“The Sivananda Sunlit Path Programme has kept to these principles and developed into a well-structured workshop which has been conducted in many parts of the province. To date, over 3 000 children have taken the pledge to refrain from, and cope with the problems of drug and alcohol addiction, suicidal tendencies and depression. They have thus become members of the prestigious Sunlit Club and receive a free supply of the quarterly magazine, Sunlit Path, which contains articles and stories to help them keep their resolves, with the motto of this Club being “God is My Guide”.
With the Grace of our Divine Master, Sri Swami Sivananda and Pujya Swami Sahajananda, Sivananda Sunlit Path Centre has shown steady growth and expansion since its opening on 10 April 2011. There is no doubt that this Centenary Celebration hosted at this Centre will act as a catalyst for further growth and expansion of this unique facility in a society riddled with socio-economic and societal ills.
The community is urged to use the services at the Centre. One may contact the Centre on weekdays during office hours for details in respect of its activities and services, namely: free counselling for problems related to substance abuse, depression, family conflicts, chronic health conditions, poor school performance, Homeopathy, Ayurveda, Reflexology, soya products, sewing and computer classes, gardening and garden products, and advice on a variety of health tonics and nature cure, amongst others.
The Sunlit Path Centre Organising Committee and devotees have taken the Sunlit Path Centre to new heights. Deepest appreciation and warmest congratulations go to all for their exceptional service, commitment and devotion. Their unity, dedication, and spirit of selfless offering have truly reflected the divine teachings of Sri Swami Sivananda and Pujya Swami Sahajananda in action. Through their tireless effort and unwavering faith, they have not only achieved excellence but also inspired others to walk the spiritual path with renewed enthusiasm and sincerity. Every task performed radiated love, discipline, and devotion - true marks of spiritual maturity. Their noble efforts and contributions in serving the Divine Mission are overwhelming. This was indeed a pristine and prestigious function – a fitting conclusion to the two-year Centenary Celebrations.
May the blessings of our beloved Gurudev, Sri Swami Sivananda and Pujya Swami Sahajananda continue to guide, uplift, and strengthen all on the path of selfless service and spiritual growth through the Sivananda Sunlit Path Centre.
Navaratri was observed at all Sivanandashrams and some of the Society’s branches from Monday, 22 September 2025 to Wednesday 1 October 2025. Vijaya Dasami was observed on Thursday, 2 October 2025. The programme on Thursday, 2 October 2025 at Sivanandashram, Reservoir Hills, commenced with Ganga Arati at 5.30pm and Satsang thereafter. The Satsang programme comprised a reading, Kirtans and Bhajans.
Excerpts from the reading on Vijaya Dasami, from Sri Swami Sivananda’s book, Hindu Fasts and Festivals, appear below.
“Durga Puja or Navaratri commences on the first and ends on the tenth day of the bright half of Aswayuja (September-October)…The tenth day is called Vijaya Dasami or Dusserah.
“The mother of Durga, that is the wife of the King of the Himalayas, longed to see her daughter. Durga was permitted by Lord Siva to visit Her beloved mother for only nine days in the year. The festival of Durga Puja marks this brief visit and ends with the Vijaya Dasami day, when Goddess Durga leaves for Her return to Mount Kailas. This is the view of some devotees.
“Devi fought with Bhandasura and his forces for nine days and nine nights. This Bhandasura had a wonderful birth and life. When Lord Siva burnt Cupid with the fire of His "third eye", Sri Ganesha playfully moulded a figure out of the ashes, and the Lord breathed life into it. This was the terrible demon Bhandasura. He engaged himself in great penance and on account of it obtained a boon from Lord Siva. With the help of that boon, he began harassing the worlds. The Divine Mother fought against him for nine nights – the demons have extraordinary strength during the night - and killed him on the evening of the tenth day, known as Vijaya Dasami.
“The tenth day - Vijaya Dasami - marks the trium phant victory of the soul in having attained freedom and liberation while living in this world, through the descent of divine knowledge by the Grace of Goddess Saraswati. The soul rests in its own Supreme Self or Satchidananda Brahman. This day celebrates victory and the achievement of the goal. The banner of victory flies aloft. Lo I am He! I am He!
“The learning of any Science is begun on this highly auspicious Vijaya Dasami day. It was on this day that Arjuna worshipped Devi before starting the battle against the Kauravas on the field of Kurukshetra.
“Sri Rama worshipped Durga at the time of the fight with Ravana, to invoke Her aid in the war. This was on the days preceding Vijaya Dasami. He fought and won through Her Grace.
“This day, however, has much to do with the life of Sri Rama. Nowhere in the history of the world can we find a parallel to the character of Sri Rama as a man, son, brother, husband, father or king. Rishi Valmiki has exhausted all the superlatives in describing the might and glory of Sri Rama. We shall be celebrating Dusserah rightly if we make honest efforts to destroy the demon of our ego, and radiate peace and love wherever we go.
“Let us all resolve to become men of sterling and pure character. Let us resolve and act. The story of Sri Rama is known in almost all parts of the globe, and if we but succeed in following even a hundredth part of His teachings, we shall make our lives more fragrant than the rose and more lustrous than gold!
“Dusserah can also be interpreted as "Dasa-Hara", which means the cutting of the ten heads of Ravana. So, let us resolve today to cut the ten heads - passion, pride, anger, greed, infatuation, lust, hatred, jealousy, selfishness and crookedness - of the demon, ego, and thus justify the celebration of Dusserah”.
The following poignant message of the Divine Master sums up the esoteric meaning of this great observance, “May you celebrate this Dusserah with full faith and sincere devotion. May Durga give the milk of Divine wisdom to Her children and lift them to magnanimous heights of Divine splendour and glory, the imperishable state of Kaivalaya and eternal Sunshine!”
Devotees gathered at Sivanandashram, Reservoir Hills for the morning Sadhana programme from 6am until 6.25am. Thereafter, all had Darshan at Sahaja Kutir and the Sivavananda-Sahajananda Diamond Jubilee Centre. There was Akhanda chanting from 5am until 5pm. Ganga Arati commenced at 5.30pm followed by Satsang, which comprised Pujya Swami Sahajananda’s audio message, Kirtans, Bhajans, a DVD presentation and a reading.
During the Satsang, the reading, entitled, “I am Born” from Autobiography of Swami Sivananda, traced the early life of the Master until his medical college days. Some of the excerpts follow herewith. “I was born to Srimati Parvati Ammal and P.S. Vengu Iyer, as their third son, on Thursday the 8th September, 1887, at the time of sunrise, when the Star Bharani was in ascendance. My elder brother, Sri P.V. Veeraraghava Iyer, was the personal assistant to the Rajah of Ettiapuram. My other brother, Sri P.V. Sivarama Iyer, was an Inspector of Post Offices. My uncle Appaya Sivam was a great Sanskrit Scholar. He was much revered by the people in the Tirunelveli District. He has written many philosophical books in Sanskrit. Kuppuswamy was the name given to me by my parents.
“Born in the family of devotees, saints and philosophers as a pet child, I was brought up carefully by my parents and received very good training. People used to admire my wonderful physique, well-developed chest and sinewy arms. The Rajah of Ettiapuram was all admiration for my well-developed body, my good manners and habits. I was bold, courageous, carefree and amiable by nature. In former days, especially in villages, there was no room for developing any evil habit at all. The environment and atmosphere were highly favourable for progress in education and culture. I was unusually active as a boy and had a highly pushing nature.
“Even now I clearly remember, that when Lord Ampthill, the then Governor of Madras, came to Kurumalai Hills in 1901 for hunting, I was chosen to read the Welcome Address. I also sang a beautiful Welcome Song in English at the station platform of Kumarapuram, next to Koilpatti Railway Station. In the School Annual Prize Distribution, I used to get a lot of books as presents. Once I got the Globe Edition of Shakespeare and Macaulay’s Speeches and Writings. I passed my Matriculation Examination in 1903 from the Rajah’s High School, Ettiapuram. Then I joined the S.P.G. College, Trichinopoly, of which the Rev. H. Packenham Walsh was then Principal, who is now a Bishop.
“I was a tremendously industrious boy in the school. During my studies at the Tanjore Medical Institute, I never used to go home during the holidays. I would spend the entire period in the hospital. I had free admission into the operation theatre. I would run about here and there and acquire knowledge of surgery which only a senior student would possess. An old Assistant Surgeon had to appear for a departmental test; he used to make me read his text books for him. This enabled me to compete with the senior students in theoretical proficiency. I was first in all subjects.
“I had heard of an enterprising assistant in the Mannargudi Hospital. I wanted to become like him. With all humility I may mention that I possessed greater knowledge than many doctors with covetable degrees. At home my mother and brothers would persuade me to take up some work in some other line, but I was adamant in my resolve to stick to the medical line, as I had a great liking for it. All my leisure hours were spent in studying all kinds of medical books.
“In the first year of my study in the Medical School I could answer papers which the final year student could not. I topped the class in all subjects. I studied Osler’s medicine with Dr. Tirumudiswami in my first year. That was a rare privilege for me. Lt.-Col. Hazel Wright, I.M.S. loved me. Dr. Jnanam admired me as an ornament of the Institution. Even during holidays, I worked in the Hospital and learnt many new lessons.
“I hit upon a plan that I should start a medical journal. I soon worked out the details. I got from my mother one hundred rupees for the initial expenses. I used to approach Ayurvedic physicians for articles on Ayurveda. I myself used to write articles on various themes and publish them in the Ambrosia under different pseudonyms.
“The Magazine quickly gained popularity soon after its inception in 1909. Distinguished contributors started contributing to it. Once my mother wanted to celebrate some festival and was in need of about one hundred and fifty rupees to meet the expenses. I was ready with this sum.
“The Ambrosia journal was successfully run for four years until I sailed for Malaya. It was of demi-quarto size, thirty-two pages each issue, and was quite beautifully got up. The material that its contents presented to the reader every month was attractive and highly useful to all medical practitioners. A significant spiritual touch could be felt in the pages of the Ambrosia. Unlike other medical journals, the entire outlook was based on the teachings of the sages of yore. Spirituality was ingrained in me even in my youth”.
Pujya Swami Sahajananda’s audio message was deep in meaning and knowledge. He drew a parallel between the Desert Fathers and our Hindu saints. The Desert Fathers did not hand down their knowledge and teachings to disciples as is the case with Hindu saints. The link between a Guru and disciple is stronger than filial bonds, and is difficult to be explained. This then is evident in the strong Guru-disciple link in the East. Sri Gurudev asked Swami Vishnudevananda to go to the West as there were Indian souls who have incarnated there, and that they were Indian souls in western bodies. In the case of Hindu disciples, “The homage that he pays to his Guru cannot be expressed in words”. The necessity of a Guru is paramount and “only direct experience will tell whether you need a Guru or not”. He also narrated the story of the mad Muslim boy who was cured by drinking water that was used to wash Papa Swami Ramdas’s Feet, given to the boy by Mother Krishnabai. Our love for the Guru is natural. A God-realised Guru is a tremendous being and “can give salvation to the whole world”. Pujya Swamiji paid homage to Sri Gurudev and all the great saints, and attested to the greatness of our Master and the Guru-disciple relationship.
In Sri Swami Sivananda’s message on Karma Yoga in the DVD, he said “half-hearted service is no service at all”. The Master emphasised that “the goal of life is God-realisation”, and that we should give the mind to God and hands to work. We should prepare the mind for Karma Yoga, as the mind will distract us as it expects something as a reward for our actions. The correct mental attitude is important in Karma Yoga. We should divinise all work, even in the workplace. He quoted the case of the butcher who realised God in his shop. He said that “selfishness is the bane of society and the root cause of human suffering”. The latter part of the DVD had a song by Sri Gurudev on the theme of Karma Yoga, and was a fitting conclusion to this potent and inspiring lesson.
The annual celebration of Sri Swami Sivananda’s birthday is not merely a commemoration of his birth, but a spiritual reminder and a call to live his teachings in our daily lives. For spiritual aspirants, this occasion is a beacon of inspiration. It urges us to re-dedicate ourselves to discipline, to deepen our meditation, to strengthen our devotion, and to cultivate the divine virtues that Sri Swami Sivananda so perfectly embodied: love, service, humility, and God-consciousness. For householders, this day carries a special message: he taught us that spirituality is not confined to the forest or the monastery, but it must flourish in the home and the workplace. Every act of love, patience, sacrifice and duty, when done in the spirit of service to God, becomes a form of worship. His birthday reminds us to infuse our family and work lives with higher values, to live simply, to give generously, and to bring harmony and devotion into our lives.
Let us not only celebrate Sri Swami Sivananda’s birthday with prayers and offerings, but let us resolve to live his immortal message: “Serve, Love, Give, Purify, Meditate, Realise”. By walking in his footsteps, we can all transform our lives into a radiant expression of divine joy and peace.
May the blessings of our beloved Sri Swami Sivananda guide and bless us always.
Sivananda International Cultural Centre (SICC) was the venue of the most auspicious 138th Birth Anniversary Celebrations of Sri Swami Sivananda, when approximately 1500 devotees, donors, well-wishers, representatives of sister organisations and members of the public attended. The celebration was a veritable spiritual feast comprising an array of items. The morning Sadhana programme comprised the final recital of the Sri Hanuman Chalisa 11 times, followed by a Havan. After Ganga Arati, there was a grand March Past, wherein branches of the Society and a sister-organisation participated. This was followed by Satsang.
The 41-Day Recital of the Sri Hanuman Chalisa commenced on 29 July 2025. Hundreds of devotees participated in this sacred Vrat. The prayerful recital of the Sri Hanuman Chalisa in the sacred precincts of the serene SICC, added to the sanctity of the occasion. The sacred Havan, invoking the Divine Presence, was an apt conclusion to the Sri Hanuman Chalisa recital, as advised by Pujya Swami Sahajananda. The Havan sanctified the atmosphere, creating peace, harmony, and spiritual upliftment for all present.
A grand Deity Parade on a colourful and decorative float, was a sight to behold. Spiritual Darlings (children) dressed as Deities were resplendent in their finery and make-up. A massive March Past of the Society’s branches and a sister organisation, was a disciplined, devotional procession. To the singing of mellifluous Kirtans, the March Past, a “lap-of-honour” for Sri Swami Sivananda and Pujya Swami Sahajananda, reflected Bhakti, unity, discipline, and dedication to Guru and God. The March Past was not merely a procession, but a moving prayer, with rows of hearts beating as one in honour of adorable Gurudev, Sri Swami Sivananda and Pujya Swamiji.
The Satsang programme comprised Kirtans, Bhajans, Sri Swami Sivananda’s message, Pujya Swami Sahajananda’s audio message, a message from the Society, the launch of a special Centenary Celebrations’ publication, Sivananda’s Gospel of Divine Life, Volumes 1 and 2, two dance items and the majestic Sivananda Gymnastic Drill Display.
Sri Swami Sivananda’s message from Questions and Answers, was his response to a devotee’s question, “If the soul is immortal, why does Swamiji celebrate his birthday, which relates to the body?” The Master’s profound response was, “I do not celebrate my birthday. It is the devotees who do it. Celebration of such birthdays is equal to worship of Para Brahman. Worship of the Guru is worship of Para Brahman. The devotees take delight in celebrating the birthday, and they are uplifted and benefited. A spiritual wave is created year after year when the birthday is celebrated, and more and more people get a chance of knowing the existence of the Divine Life Society and my teachings. The celebration of the birthday is an annual reminder to aspirants of the purpose of their life. It is a fillip to their spiritual practices. The pious, receptive attitude prevalent on such an occasion draws forth the Grace of Guru and God upon the devotees. The thoughts of peace, devotion, love, 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 country”.
The Master explained further, “It is not without purpose that Hindus celebrate the birthdays of religious leaders, saints and sages. We have Buddha Jayanti, Shankara Jayanti, Mahavira Jayanti, etc. The Hindu calendar is spotted with many such Jayantis and other holy days, so that the observance of these Jayantis and holy days may give people the needed spiritual impetus to strive with increased zeal for the attainment of the purpose of life, namely, God-realisation. The more we have such special, holy days, the more we have the chance of being inspired to intensify our spiritual progress”.
Sri Swami Sahajananda’s audio message was deeply and spiritually instructive and insightful. He focused on the concept of fear. Many of us are fearful of many things and often do not welcome obstacles and challenges, but God has placed us in such conditions for our own growth. Pujya Swamiji said, “Grace means that God wants to take you to him” and that we should “never be afraid at all”, and make the best of every situation. Pujya Swamiji quoted the great saint and luminary, Anandamayi Ma who said that if we do not go willingly to God, then we will be whipped into going to God by challenges and difficulties. He also narrated the story of the juggler who joined a monastery. He heard that one should give what one could to the Divine. The only offering he could make was his juggling. Having offered same to Mother Mary, he had the Grace of Mother Mary. Pujya Swamiji also reassured us that our Divine Master knows what to give and when to give.
The message from the Society highlighted the personality and legacies of Sri Swami Sivananda. This is evident in the following excerpts. “Swami Sivananda’s life blossomed forth with full spiritual energy from the time he was a mischievous little child, like Lord Krishna, and throughout his physical presence on Mother Earth. He was very unassuming, and in Pujya Swamiji’s words, “Gurudev hid himself from the world.” Pujya Swamiji also shared that in time to come people will realise that Gurudev was an Avatar of the Lord. Today we see the influence of beloved Gurudev, the God-Man. Perhaps the most remarkable aspect of Swami Sivananda’s legacy is its living quality. The institutions he established, the ideals he championed, and the disciples he inspired continue to shed his light into the world. Gurudev was an adept in all the different Yogas. More than 250 books were authored by Gurudev. His literature can be found on every continent today. Gurudev founded Divine Life Society of South Africa with the aim of distributing his message in the form of printed books. This has given devotees a rare opportunity of doing Karma Yoga and serving Gurudev and earning spiritual merit”.
The Master’s catholicity, deep and insightful spiritual realisation, are evident in, “Swami Sivananda was a Master of practical Vedanta - a philosophy not confined to speculation, but lived and experienced in daily life. He taught that the highest spiritual truths must find expression in thought, word, and deed. The realisation of one’s own divinity, he insisted, is inextricably linked to loving and serving others. He encouraged all to adopt a holistic way of living, nourishing the body through proper diet and regular exercise, the mind through study and contemplation, and the soul through daily meditation and prayer. His daily routine, famously disciplined and balanced, became a model for aspirants. “Be good, do good,” he would often say, encapsulating the spirit of his teachings in the simplest terms. He summarised his teachings with the following six words, “Serve, Love, Give, Purify, Meditate and Realise”.
Sivananda’s Gospel of Divine Life, Volumes 1 and 2, launched during the Satsang, a treasure trove containing anecdotal jewels, transports the reader into the very midst of our Master and his God-like nature. It is a Satsang with our Master in book form, and has become an icon among followers of H.H Sri Swami Sivananda worldwide. This great treatise owes its origins to our very own country, South Africa. It was on this very soil that Sri Swami Sahajananda edited, compiled, printed and himself released this book. Some 45 years ago, on 8 January 1980, the first hardcover edition was launched. On 24 October 2006, Swami Sahajananda wrote the following: “When we reprint a new edition, it will appear in two volumes with soft cover, as this will be easy to handle. Sivananda’s Gospel of Divine Life is a unique publication. No other book of similar nature can compare with it. In this book one sees our Master exhibiting his unique qualities of love, forgiveness, compassion, etc. To me, our Master was an Avatar but he kept this hidden”.
The beautiful Bharatanatyam Dance items by the Natya Kalalayam Academy of Dance, under the esteemed guidance of Smt. Kantharuby Munsamy - a highly respected Bharatanatyam teacher, choreographer, and cultural icon in South Africa, added immense beauty and divinity to the celebrations.
The Sivananda Gymnastic Drill Display, was launched around 1997 by Sri Swami Sahajananda. The performance at SICC saw participants from Sivanandashram, Sandton, various branches and Ashrams in KwaZulu-Natal, ranging in age from 10 years to senior citizens. It was performed to the Ram Bhajans, Rama Siyapati Ram and Bhajale Ram. Synchronised, uniform, stylised, and graceful group movements showcased the beauty of coordinated effort, where every participant moved in harmony with the others. Each action was meticulously timed, maintaining uniformity in posture, rhythm, and flow, creating a visually striking pattern. Stylisation added an artistic touch, turning simple motions into elegant expressions, while grace ensured fluidity and poise. Together, these elements conveyed discipline, concentration, teamwork, and aesthetic charm, leaving a lasting impression of collective harmony and artistry. The drill was a beautiful offering by the group of approximately 86 participants.
As we draw this sacred 138th Birth Anniversary Celebration to a close, our hearts are filled with gratitude, joy and spiritual inspiration. Over these moments of devotion, prayer and fellowship, we have collectively celebrated the life, teachings, and enduring legacy of our beloved Gurudev, Sri Swami Sivananda, a beacon of divine wisdom, compassion, and selfless service. This grand assembly at SICC has not only deepened our understanding of his timeless teachings, but has also strengthened the bonds of our spiritual family. We have witnessed the power of unity in devotion, the grace that flows from selfless service, and the profound peace that arises when hearts turn toward the Divine.
May the spiritual energy kindled here continue to illuminate our lives. Let us carry forward the ideals of love, humility, and service that Sri Swami Sivananda exemplified, inspiring others in our families, communities, and the wider world. Let us remember that the celebration does not end here. Each prayer offered, each teaching reflected upon, and each act of kindness we perform, is a living tribute to the greatness of Sri Swami Sivananda and Pujya Swami Sahajananda.
May their blessings guide us always, and may we remain steadfast on the path of Dharma, devotion, and divine service.
Sri Ganesha Chaturthi was celebrated at all Sivanandashrams and at a few Branches of the Society on Tuesday, 26 August 2025. At Sivanandashram, Reservoir Hills, Ganga Arati commenced at 5.30pm followed by Satsang. The Satsang programme comprised Kirtans, Bhajans and a reading.
Sri Swami Sivananda explains in Hindu Fasts and Festivals, that Lord Ganesha cursed the moon that no one should look at it on Ganesh Chaturthi Day. Sri Gurudev said, “If anyone does, he will surely earn a bad name, censure or ill-repute. However, if by mistake someone does happen to look at the moon on this day then the only way he could be freed from the curse would be by repeating or listening to the story of how Lord Krishna cleared His character regarding the Syamantaka Jewel. This story is quoted in the Bhagavatam”.
A summary of the reading, “The Story of the Jewel Syamantaka”, is that a radiant gem originally belonged to the Sun-God, Surya. Whoever possessed it would never face famine or calamity, and it would produce eight measures of gold daily. It also protected the owner if he was virtuous, but it would bring ruin if possessed by the unrighteous. Satrajit, a nobleman and devotee of Surya, received the Syamantaka Jewel as a boon from the Sun-God. His brother, Prasena, once wore the jewel and went hunting but he was killed by a lion. The lion was then slain by Jambavan (the great bear-king who fought in Lord Rama’s time), who took the jewel and gave it to his child.
When Prasena did not return, rumours spread that Lord Krishna had coveted and killed Prasena to steal the jewel. To clear his name, Lord Krishna set out to find the missing man. He followed the trail, found Prasena’s body, and discovered that Jambavan possessed the jewel. Lord Krishna entered Jambavan’s cave and fought with him fiercely for 28 days. Eventually, Jambavan realised the Lord’s true identity as Lord Rama (whom he had served in the past). He surrendered, offered the jewel, and also gave his daughter, Jambavati in marriage to Lord Krishna. Lord Krishna brought the jewel back to Satrajit, who was filled with shame for having doubted Him.
To make amends, Satrajit offered Lord Krishna both the jewel and his daughter, Satyabhama in marriage. The Lord accepted Satyabhama but refused to keep the jewel, leaving it with Satrajit to avoid jealousy and conflict.
Satrajit was later murdered by Shatadhanva, who coveted the Syamantaka Jewel. Lord Krishna pursued Shatadhanva, slew him, but again refused to keep the jewel, returning it instead to its rightful family.
The story highlights how greed and suspicion bring destruction, while truth and righteousness ultimately triumph. It also shows Lord Krishna’s nature: though falsely accused, He proved His innocence through action and upheld detachment, refusing to keep the jewel despite having every right to do so. Though, later conflicts arose over the gem, Lord Krishna consistently refused to keep it, showing that truth, humility, and detachment overcome greed and false accusation.
May we find resonance and deep meaning in Sri Swami Sivananda’s message on Lord Ganesha. He said, “On the Ganesh Chaturthi day, meditate on the stories connected with Lord Ganesha early in the morning, during the Brahmamuhurta period. Then, after taking a bath, go to the temple and do the prayers of Lord Ganesha. Offer Him some coconut and sweet pudding. Pray with faith and devotion that He may remove all the obstacles that you experience on the spiritual path. Worship Him at home, too…
“Take fresh spiritual resolves and pray to Lord Ganesha for inner spiritual strength to attain success in all your undertakings.
“May the blessings of Sri Ganesha be upon you all! May He remove all the obstacles that stand in your spiritual path! May He bestow on you all material prosperity as well as liberation!”
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.
The celebration of the auspicious Sri Krishna Janmashtami, the divine appearance day of Lord Krishna, the Supreme Lord who descended to protect the righteous and destroy evil, was held at Sivanandashram, Reservoir Hills, at all our Ashrams and at some of the Society’s branches. Born at midnight in Mathura to Devaki and Vasudeva, Sri Krishna is the embodiment of love, compassion, wisdom and divine joy. Sri Krishna Janmashtami, marks the divine birth of Lord Krishna. Born to uphold righteousness, His life reminds us that whenever evil prevails, the Divine descends to restore Dharma.
Ganga Arati at Sivanandashram, Reservoir Hills, commenced at 5.30pm followed by Satsang, which concluded at midnight. The Satsang programme comprised a variety of spiritually elevating and inspiring items, namely, Kirtans, Bhajans, readings, an audio message by Pujya Swami Sahajananda, a children’s item, guest artistes, a play recording, a Bhagavad Gita recital, a video, a DVD and the cradle Bhajan, Jaya Nandalala.
A summarised version of the reading from Hindu Fasts and Festivals by Sri Swami Sivananda, gives a succinct account of the Lord’s descent. The Master says that there are three reasons for His Divine Descent: to destroy the wicked demons, to play the leading role in the great war fought on the battlefield of Kurukshetra (where He delivered His wonderful message of the Bhagavad Gita), and to become the centre of a marvellous development of the Bhakti schools of India. There is no true science except devotion to Lord Krishna. Sri Swami Sivananda says that, that man is wealthy indeed who loves Radha and Sri Krishna, and that there is no sorrow other than lack of devotion to Sri Krishna. The holy Name, virtues and Lilas (divine pastimes) of Sri Krishna are the chief things to be remembered. The sacred Feet of Sri Krishna and Radha are the chief objects of meditation. The Master extols the nature and virtues of the Lord in, “Sri Krishna is the ocean of bliss. His soul-stirring Lilas, which are the wonder of wonders, are its waves. The honeyed music of His flute attracts the minds of His devotees from all the three regions. His breath-taking and unsurpassed beauty amazes both animate and inanimate beings. He adores His friends with His incomparable love.
The Lord’s admirable feats are captured by Sri Swami Sivananda in, “He taught the supreme truths of Yoga, Bhakti and Vedanta to Arjuna and Uddhava. He mastered the sixty-four fine arts in sixty-four days. For all these reasons, He is regarded as a full and complete manifestation of God. Incarnations of God appear for special reasons and under special circumstances. Whenever there is the prevalence of much unrighteousness and confusion, and disorder set in on account of unrighteousness and hamper the well-ordered progress of mankind, whenever the balance of human society is upset by ruthless and cruel beings, whenever irreligion is prevalent on a large scale, whenever the foundations of social organisations are undermined, then the Lord Himself incarnates in order to re-establish righteousness and restore peace”.
The reading, “Departure of Uddhava, Part 1”, extracted from Sri Krishna’s Lila by Vanamali, gives a lucid account of Lord Krishna’s advice on His worship. He said, “There are many ways in which I may be worshipped, O Uddhava, but the safe rule is to offer everything to Me as I have already told you. But if you still wish to offer something, remember that whatever is offered with love I will gladly accept. Be it a leaf, a flower, some fruit or even water, if offered with love, I will be immensely pleased. The best Puja is that which is done without any desires, for then I Myself will decide what is best for the devotee. At the end of the Puja, if you renounce the sense of doership and offer your very soul to Me then the Puja will purify you”. When Uddhava asked what he should do if he was in the desert and not even water is available, the Lord smiled and said, “So long as the water in your eyes is not dried up, My friend, do not fear. One drop from My devotee’s eyes is more precious to Me than the costliest diamond”.
Pujya Swami Sahajananda’s audio recording narrated the story of the poor Brahmin, Sudama, who met Lord Krishna after a while. He and Lord Krishna were childhood friends and fellow students at the Ashram of Guru Sandipani. Sudama was deeply devoted to God. Though Sudama lived a life of poverty, his heart overflowed with devotion, simplicity, and contentment. He and his wife often went without food. Despite their poverty, Sudama never once asked for help, not even from Lord Krishna, who by then had become the King of Dwaraka and lived in unimaginable prosperity. One day, at the urging of his wife, he visited Lord Krishna. As an offering to Lord Krishna, his wife tied a small bundle of rice which she got from neighbours. When Sudama reached Lord Krishna’s magnificent palace, the Lord embraced his childhood friend, washed Sudama’s feet and sprinkled the water on His head. Sudama felt shy and embarrassed about his humble gift, but Lord Krishna, with great joy, snatched the small bundle of rice and ate a handful with delight. When He was about to eat more, Rukmini gently stopped him, for with each mouthful, the Lord was granting Sudama untold prosperity. Sudama spent the night in bliss with Lord Krishna but never asked for wealth or help. His heart was filled only with love for his friend. When he finally returned home, his little hut had transformed into a grand palace, and he and his wife had untold riches. The Lord had silently blessed His friend with abundance, without Sudama ever asking. The story of Sudama and Lord Krishna teaches that true friendship is based on love, not wealth, that God values true Bhakti, devotion and humility over material offerings, and when one surrenders to God with a pure heart, blessings come unasked.
The theme of love of an ardent devotee for the Lord, was again amplified in the play reading, “Krishna’s Jewels” by Sri Swami Sivananda. Kala the robber received the Lord’s Darshan and vision because of his intense desire to see the Lord, although his intention was to rob the Lord and Balarama of their jewels.
The delightful song by our Spiritual Darlings (children) of the Reservoir Hills Sunday School, was an apt offering on this occasion. Dressed as deities, their innocence and beauty captivated the hearts of all. The Bhagavad Gita recital with English meanings, Pujya Swami Sahajananda’s Bhajans on Lord Krishna, the DVD – Message of Sivananda, and a video on Lord Krishna, all added to the celestial atmosphere of the occasion, and were deeply inspirational. The cradle Bhajan, Jaya Nandalala was a fitting conclusion to this divine experience.
The evening’s programme had several guest artistes. Dr Veena Lutchman and Sri Rajish Lutchman made their offering with their mellifluous renditions of soulful Kirtans and Bhajans. Both artistes are accomplished musicians with deep love for our Divine Master and Pujya Swami Sahajananda. The Natya Kalayalam Academy of Dance and Music, under the esteemed guidance of Guru Smt Kantharuby Munsamy, a highly respected Bharatanatyam teacher and choreographer, rendered a beautiful Bharatanatyam dance. The Kathak dance by Kashmira Bhajan a student of the Kala Darshan Institute of Indian Classical Music and Dance, paid obeisance to Lord Krishna. Kashmira’s dance was a prayer in movement, rhythm and grace.
Let us all find comfort and solace in Lord Krishna’s Divine Name, as He revealed the power of His Name to Uddhava, “He who listens to the story of My life, he who narrates it or explains it to others, will sanctify himself as well as his listeners. If even this is too difficult, O Uddhava, take a dip in the flowing river of My Names. The chanting of My Name alone is enough to attain liberation…They can be enjoyed and repeated by anyone regardless of birth or sex. Sweeter than honey is My Name, giving bliss to those who utter it as well as to those who hear it. It is the ripe, juicy fruit of the Vedas. Like a calf following its mother, I Myself will follow the one who calls on My Name, in order to see that no harm comes to him. Thus, listening to the tales about My life and, chanting My Names, you will definitely be victorious over death itself”. The Lord further advised Uddhava, “Go to the temples, O Uddhava! I will be residing there. And if you are in doubt as to where my temples are situated, I will tell you. My temples are in the hearts of My devotees. Therefore, go to where My devotees congregate. Wherever you hear My Names chanted and My stories recited, there will I also be. Seek for Me therefore amongst My devotees, for through them will I ever manifest Myself in this world!”
Om Namo Bhagavade Sivanandaya
Sri Swami Sivananda
(1887 - 1963)
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