The day commenced with a Havan at 8am, which was attended by 150 devotees. Ganga Arati was at 9am after which we had Satsang. The Satsang programme had a kaleidoscope of offerings to our Divine Master and to beloved Pujya Swamiji, which was well received by all visiting sister organisations, associated branches of the DLS SA and as well as new visitors from far and wide. Amongst the items, the Board of Management paid tribute to all devotees and pioneers from the branches who have nurtured the organisation and are continuing to do so. In this well-designed programme, there was a reading on the Glory of the Hinduism, humour and quotations from Pujya Swamiji, delivered by our Spiritual Darlings who made us think deeply on how we ought to improve and live our lives. A dance item and a play on the formation of Divine Life Society of South Africa enacted by the youth, appealed to the congregation. In the play, "Learn to Type and to make Tea", the great sacrifices that were made by Pujya Swamiji and the early devotees and their perseverance in building the Society were brought out very creatively in this well scripted play. The melodious Bhajans and Kirtans were thoroughly enjoyed by all and it was very noticeable and encouraging that the youth from "Sivananda Academy" participated in almost all items on the programme. The varied programme went a long way in holding the attention of all persons in attendance till closure.
The messages from Gurudev and Pujya Swamiji that were relayed, infused in all attendees the importance of obedience and surrender to a Guru and holding fast to the tenets enshrined in Hinduism and the teachings of our saints and sages. Further to this, it instilled in one the significance of Satsang and congregational worship. In addition, it reminded one to live a life of divine consciousness by constantly practicing and imbibing religious values, is a prerequisite for humanity, and a sure way to lead a more wholesome life.
The purpose and intention of our Divine Master coming into this world is the waking of the slumbering soul of mankind. This is what our Divine Master and Pujya Swami Sahajananda accomplished in South Africa. "I will insist on taking birth after birth to work, worship, study and teach Yoga." These words of our Master are so stirring and prophetic! To him, his work was all important. We, of the world, are so fortunate to have inherited his legacy. We are all beneficiaries of this spiritual treasure. What we do with it is all important. What do we do to help ourselves? How do we honour His mission? He will guide us if we call. It is something which each one of us must do within ourselves. That is the only hope of survival in this sorely divided world. The followers of Swami Siva¬nanda and Swami Sahajananda can pay no higher and better tribute to their memories than by resolving to live as they had taught to: serve, love, give, purify, meditate, realize, be good, do good, be kind and be compassionate.
