The Society held its 14th event as part of the Centenary Celebrations on Saturday, 14 September 2024. The Sivananda Tour, comprising a Havan and Satsang, was held in Kimberley, in association with the Kimberley Hindu Seva Samaj, at their Mandir. Havan commenced at 4pm followed by Satsang at 4.45pm. Devotees, well-wishers, donors and members of the public from Johannesburg, Durban, Estcourt, Stanger, Kimberley, Bloemfontein and Vryburg attended the function. This, no doubt, speaks volumes of the importance placed on Satsang and prayer by the community of Kimberley and neighbouring towns, and their reverence, love and affiliation to Sri Swami Sivananda, Pujya Swami Sahajananda, and Divine Life Society of South Africa.
The Mandir’s Pundit performed the Havan with Bhav and decorum, to the chants of sacred and soulful Mantras. Participants in the Havan were from both the Kimberley Hindu Seva Samaj and Divine Life Society of South Africa. The Satsang programme comprised Kirtans and Bhajans by both organisations, a welcome address by the Samaj, a message from the Society, a talk on Sri Swami Sivananda’s cardinal teachings on Hinduism, guided meditation and a talk on the benefits of Mantra chanting.
Sri Chandrakant Vala, the Chairperson of the Kimberley Hindu Seva Samaj, in his welcome address paid glowing tribute to Sri Swami Sivananda. He said, “As we reflect on the profound legacy of Swami Sivananda, we are reminded of his boundless compassion, wisdom, and unwavering dedication to the upliftment of humanity. His teachings continue to inspire and guide us on the path of righteousness, selfless service and spiritual enlightenment”.
The Society’s contributions as well as the purpose of the Sivananda Centenary Tour and its expected outcomes, are again captured in Sri Chandrakant Vala’s message, when he said, “The Divine Life Society, founded by Swami Sivananda, has been a beacon of hope and a source of spiritual nourishment for countless souls around the world. Over the past 100 years, it has grown from a humble beginning to a global movement, spreading the message of love, peace, and unity. Today, as we continue to celebrate this centenary milestone, we also honour the tireless efforts of all the devotees, volunteers, and leaders who have contributed to the growth and success of Divine Life Society. Your dedication and commitment have kept the flame of Swami Sivananda’s vision burning brightly.
“Let us take this opportunity to re-dedicate ourselves to the principles and values that Swami Sivananda espoused. Let us strive to live a life of purity, humility, and selflessness, and continue to serve humanity with love and compassion. As we together embark on the next century of the Divine Life Society, let us carry forward the torch of wisdom and spirituality, illuminating the lives of those around us and spreading the light of divine knowledge.
“Thank you for being here today and for your unwavering support and devotion. Together, let us make this celebration a memorable and inspiring event”.
The message from the Society gave a brief overview of the Society’s history and Centenary Celebrations, Sri Swami Sivananda’s teachings and legacies, and the sterling work of our illustrious Sri Swami Sahajananda, Spiritual Head of the Society. The activities of the Society were also highlighted, as many came in touch with Divine Life Society of South Africa for the first time. The message also encouraged all to take advantage of weekly Satsangs and prayer services in their areas, so as to preserve our glorious Hindu Dharma, and that it is our foremost duty to pass on our glorious Hindu Dharma from one generation to the next. The importance of Mantra chanting and recital of the Sri Hanuman Chalisa, were also emphasised.
The talk on “Sri Swami Sivananda on Hinduism, importance of Sadhana, Meditation, Prayer and benefits of Satsang”, was intended to provide glimpses of Sri Swami Sivananda’s views on our glorious Sanatana Dharma and some of its practices, so that we can all intensify our spiritual practices. Sri Swami Sivananda’s clarion call to all Hindus is direct and unambiguous. He said, “Become true Hindus. Let the flame of true love fire your soul. Stand up. Gird up the loins. The hostile forces are ready to absorb you. Strengthen yourself. Unite”. He further advised, “Chant the Divine Name in the Temple, at home, at your workplace, while driving and at all times. O man, take refuge in the Divine Name. God and His Name are inseparable. Sing the Lord’s Name incessantly. Remember the Name of the Lord with every incoming and outgoing breath. In this age, repetition of the Divine Name is the easiest, quickest, safest and surest way to reach God and attain immortality and perennial joy. Glory to the Lord! Glory to His Name! Glory to Hinduism!”
The talk on the benefits of Mantra chanting gave the congregation hints on which Mantras to chant, how to chant, and benefits of Mantra chanting. The guided meditation was intended to assist us in creating mental and physical harmony, so as to be at peace and in tune with the world. Meditation takes us to God, enhances focus, concentration and intellect, increases feelings of compassion, empathy and kindness, supports personal and spiritual growth, and reduces stress. Meditation is an important aspect of spiritual practice.
We thank the Kimberley Hindu Seva Samaj and the community of Kimberley and neighbouring towns, for a well-organised celebration. 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 Kimberley and surrounding towns. The high standard of organisation, 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 Society’s booklet with Kirtans and Bhajans, given to all Satsangees as a gift from Divine Life Society of South Africa, was received with gratitude. This booklet will enable one to sing the melodious Kirtans and Bhajans, and have Satsangs at home. The distribution of Sri Swami Sivananda’s literature and teachings in Kimberley and surrounding areas, is helping to spread the message of Divine Life and our glorious Hindu Dharma in the Northern Cape.
We wish the Kimberley Hindu Seva Samaj every success in continuing to promote our glorious Hindu Dharma.
