The 77th Anniversary of Divine Life Society of South Africa was celebrated on Sunday, 18 October 2026 at Sivananda International Cultural Centre, La Mercy. This event coincided with the monthly Yoga Camp. Ganga Arati commenced at 10am followed by Satsang at 10.30am. The Anniversary Satsang programme comprised Kirtans, Bhajans, reading of two letters written by Sri Swami Sivananda to V. Srinivasan (now Sri Swami Sahajananda), two devotional dances and Pujya Swami Sahajananda’s audio message.
The letter dated 18 October 1949 holds particular significance for the Society. This correspondence became the historic foundation for the annual observance of the Society's anniversary on 18 October. Sri Gurudev acknowledged Srinivasan's spiritual discipline, thanked him for his donation and commended his efforts to distribute spiritual literature. Referring to the pamphlet Twenty Important Spiritual Instructions, which had been attractively printed for free distribution, the Master encouraged Srinivasan to continue this noble service, when he said, “Print such pamphlets as often as circumstances permit and distribute them among aspirants hungering for God”. He then affirmed the spiritual value of this work, declaring, “It is the greatest service and will hasten your progress”. These words capture the essence of Sri Gurudev's vision: spiritual knowledge must not remain confined to the individual but must be shared freely with those seeking a deeper understanding of life and God. It is the handwritten instruction in the letter that gives 18 October its enduring historical importance. The Master said, “Kindly start a branch of Divine Life Society. I recognise you as the Secretary”. What began with a letter, a spiritual aspiration and a call to service has grown into a movement dedicated to spreading the teachings of Sri Swami Sivananda and serving humanity.
The letter dated 17 October 1948 reveals another dimension of Sri Gurudev's guidance. Addressing Sri V. Srinivasan, the Master welcomed his intention to visit India and spend time at the Ashram. He described the Ashram as an ideal environment for spiritual development, affirming, “Yes, this is an ideal field for the practice of Karma Yoga, and devotion too”. The letter provides practical guidance on daily spiritual discipline. Sri Gurudev encouraged Srinivasan to maintain his spiritual diary, gradually reduce his sleep and rise at 4am. He also highlighted the value of silence or Mouna and periodic fasting. This advice illustrates the Master's approach to spiritual life: sincere aspiration must be supported by regular practice, self-discipline, devotion and service.
Pujya Swami Sahajananda’s audio message focused on an aspirant’s relationship with the Guru and the Law of Karma. Through his own personal experiences with the Master, his yearning to visit the Master’s abode, his depression when he was away from home, and the Master’s invisible guiding hand, Pujya Swamiji showed how the Master had total control over Srinivasan’s life. This is further evident in Pujya Swamiji’s words, “No one can resist his will”. He also stated that the whole universe is pervaded by God, and that “we should not live in a state of fear”, for God and our Master are at our sides. He said that if one surrenders, then the Guru will protect one, and that “the Guru is a super human being”. Regular Satsang will help in paying off past Karmas. “If you remember the great Law of Karma, then most of our troubles will be over”. He also indicated that the Guru can ward off certain Karmas.
Two exquisite dances presented by Kashmira Bhajan were a beautiful expression of devotion to the Divine Mother, glorifying Her boundless power, compassion, wisdom and Grace. Through graceful movements, rhythmic steps and devotional music, the dancer sought not only to praise the Divine Mother, but also to manifest Her sacred qualities. The dances reminded devotees that Navaratri is a time of spiritual renewal, inner purification and awakening the divine feminine energy that triumphs over negativity and leads humanity towards righteousness, harmony and divine realisation. Kashmira’s performances were outstanding and the dances were performed with professionalism, skill and beauty.
The 77th Anniversary of Divine Life Society of South Africa was an occasion not merely to remember a historic event, but also to renew our commitment to the principles upon which the Society was founded. The Anniversary Satsang provided a special opportunity to reflect on the Divine Master's vision, Pujya Swami Sahajananda’s hard work, his steadfast loyalty to the Divine Master and his deep and abiding ability to see to fruition, the Master’s vision. These foundations are the timeless spiritual teachings and legacies that continue to guide the Society’s work – a collective vision that continues to inspire!
