The 63rd Mahasamadhi Anniversary of Sri Swami Sivananda was observed on Tuesday, 14 July 2026 at Sivanandashram, Reservoir Hills.  A morning Sadhana programme commenced at 6am and concluded at 6.25am. Akhanda Chanting was from 5am until 5pm.

The Satsang programme in the evening comprised a reading, Pujya Swami Sahajananda’s audio message, melodious Kirtans and Bhajans and a DVD of the Master’s messages.

The reading entitled, The Great Soul Enters the Cosmic: Sri Swami Sivananda attains Mahasamadhi, extracted from Path to God-Realization, published by Divine Life Society of South Africa in September-October 1963, was a riveting account of Sri Gurudev’s final moments on the earthly plane. Even on this last evening, the Master’s habitual humour and spontaneous, gracious hospitality were manifest during the visit of the doctor from Dehradun. As he tapped him for his reflexes, the Master jokingly told him, "Your military training has made you rough. You are being hard on my body”. 

The reading vividly captured the Master’s failing health and love for Mother Ganga, as is indicative in, “Though he had difficulty in swallowing even liquid diet, he surprised the attending disciples on this last evening by asking for fresh Ganges’ water and gulping down half a glass of it without any apparent difficulty. He loved the Ganges, and satisfied himself upon his last day by quenching his thirst from the fresh water of the Ganges' ice-cold flow.

“The last rites of His Holiness were carried on in the traditional mode that is followed in regard to monks of the Paramahamsa Order. The body, seated in meditation pose with hands interlocked, was borne in a palanquin. There was an expression of serene repose and majestic calmness in the face. Earlier, during the entire past 36 hours, a continuous stream of devotees and disciples from far and near came into his humble little Kutir on the bank of the Ganges. They all went into the inner cave-like room where he had spent most of his life, and where he lay on his sick bed during the illness that proved to be the last. He had been made to sit up, as is the custom, and the devotees offered their obeisance and took a last look at him, who was so very dear to them all. It was with great difficulty that many could bring themselves to wrench their last gaze away from him…

“His body, clad in ochre robes, was borne aloft in a palanquin (Palaki) decorated with flowers, after the sacred bath given to the body with the various articles of ‘Abhisheka’ and with the holy waters of the Ganges, right on the bank of the Ganges…Wending its way along the side of the Ganges, the procession, to which thousands had thronged from Rishikesh and the neighbourhood, turned into the hill-side road and climbed up the path leading to the Ashram's temple—Sri Viswanath Mandir. A place for his Samadhi had been got ready by the side of this temple, and to the resounding chant of God's Divine Name and Sri Sivanandaji Maharaj ki jai, his mortal remains were solemnly lowered in the vaulted chamber prepared on the ground-floor of the Guru-Murti Temple. The chamber was then filled up, according to customary procedure, with adequate quantities of salt camphor, sandalwood, incense and other fragrant ingredients. With the completion of the Samadhi-kriya (holy burial ceremony), the chamber was closed up, and a lamp placed upon the spot, together with a pot filled with the holy water of the sacred Ganga. 

Pujya Swami Sahajananda’s audio message focused on Sri Gurudev’s writings and his literary charity to the world. The Master saw the dissemination of spiritual knowledge as his core responsibility. He said that the “written word will go to the homes and remain there”, and that eventually thousands will benefit from his writings, for “Mother Saraswati, the Goddess of Learning imparted power and glory to his every word”. Sri Aurobindo also said that he infused his power in his own writing. Pujya Swamiji also adopted Sri Gurudev’s example of making the dissemination of spiritual knowledge his fundamental duty, and said that all other activities of the Society are secondary. Sri Gurudev’s letter dated 8 August 1950 heaped tremendous praise on the booklet Light, Power and Wisdom, that Pujya Swamiji printed, describing it as exquisite and grand, and that he will advertise it in the journal in Rishikesh.

The DVD entitled Sri Swami Sivananda’s Messages focused on Raja Yoga and Sadhana. The Master describes Raja Yoga as “an exact science” that seeks to “control all thought-waves or mental modifications” through the purification and mastery of the mind. Known as Ashtanga Yoga, it comprises eight limbs, beginning with Yama (self-restraint) and Niyama (right observances), which form the ethical foundation for spiritual growth. By cultivating virtues such as truthfulness, non-violence, purity, contentment and self-surrender, the aspirant develops inner peace and prepares the mind for concentration, meditation and ultimately Samadhi, the highest state of spiritual realisation. Sri Swami Sivananda teaches that “you must know the technique of thought-control” and the principles of “right living, right thinking, right speaking and right acting”. He concludes with the inspiring exhortation: “Practise Raja Yoga, control the thoughts, discipline the mind, meditate regularly and attain independence, immortality, freedom and perfection”. In respect of Sadhana, the Master taught through delightful Kirtans, the benefits of Sadhana and prayer. He said, “Sadhana is stilling the mind and fixing it on the Lord”. 

The sacred observance of Sri Swami Sivananda's 63rd Mahasamadhi Anniversary is far more than a remembrance of his leaving his mortal being. It is a reaffirmation of the timeless ideals that continue to illuminate the path of countless seekers. Through prayer, chanting, inspiring readings, Pujya Swami Sahajananda's illuminating message and Sri Gurudev's own teachings, devotees were reminded that the Master's physical departure marked the beginning of his universal spiritual presence. His call to "Serve, Love, Give, Purify, Meditate, Realise", remains as relevant today as ever. May this commemoration inspire us all to deepen our Sadhana, disseminate spiritual wisdom, and strive to embody Sri Swami Sivananda's message of Divine Life and selfless service, and aspire to God-realisation in our daily actions and lives.

The 101st Birth Anniversary of Pujya Swami Sahajananda was celebrated on Friday, 10 July 2026 at Sivanandashram, Reservoir Hills. There was a morning Sadhana programme from 6am until 6.25am, after which devotees had Darshan at Sahaja Kutir, Pujya Swamiji’s sacred Kutir and the Sivananda-Sahajananda Diamond Jubilee Centre. Akhanda Chanting took place from 5am until 4pm.

In the evening, Ganga Arati commenced at 5pm, followed by Satsang. The Satsang programme comprised melodious Kirtans and Bhajans, readings of three letters from Sri Swami Sivananda to Pujya Swamiji, Pujya Swamiji’s audio message and a delightful children’s presentation.

The three letters from Sri Swami Sivananda had potent and powerful messages, pregnant with blessings, encouragement and praise for Sri Swami Sahajananda. The letter dated 21st November, 1954 praised the spiritual work being done in Durban, calling it ‘transformative’.  He said, “You have made Durban the Lord’s Turban, the Crown of Divine Life, Vaikuntha or Kailasa on earth”. He extended blessings to all devotees and supporters. The core of the letter was advice on spiritual living. Sri Gurudev commended Srinivasan’s example, saying, “Your noble self’s life is inspiring”, and urged detachment from ego and identity, evident in, “Be a witness. Do not identify yourself with the name ‘V. Srinivasan’ or this photograph. Let others do whatever they like”. He emphasized that lived example is more powerful than theory, when he said, “A great Sadhak’s or saint’s life is greater inspiration to people than volumes of dry theory on Yoga and Vedanta. In the life-story of a saint are the secrets of Yoga and Self-realisation”.

In the letter dated 6th March 1961, the Master expressed appreciation for the progress of the Divine Life Society’s South African Branch in Durban. He acknowledged the building plans, publications and overall work, and encouraged Sri Swami Sahajananda to continue despite hardships. He said, “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…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 new born babe”. He continued, “Draw strength, power and inspiration from meditation. Wear the armour of Viveka-Vairagya. Rest peacefully in the Self”.

The letter of 10th March 1962 is the Master’s response to Pujya Swamiji’s self-analysis letter. He commended Pujya Swamiji’s spiritual progress, calmness and self-surrender. He also gave a practical instruction that Sri Swami Sahajananda remain in Durban rather than touring. On Pujya Swamiji’s spiritual attainment he said, “It delights me beyond measure to go through your critical and analytical study of your mind, Sadhana and personality.  It is the fruit of your ungrudging self-surrender, hard selfless work, sincere and steady application in Sadhana that has enabled you to reach this stage of Sadhana and evolution. The Master continued, “Very few Sadhaks have attained the state of calmness, steadiness and fixity as you have done”. On the result of surrender, the Master said, “With the surrender of the lower Self to the higher Self and that to the Divine there is an end of all pain and suffering. It is all one flood of joy and inner light to the Sadhaka”.

Sri Swami Sivananda’s blessings, praise for Pujya Swamiji’s selfless service in Durban, his emphasis on Sadhana, self-surrender, meditation and the belief that Divine Grace protects those doing spiritual work, are encouraging, and reminiscent of Pujya Swami Sahajananda’s complete and unflinching loyalty, perseverance and dedication to the Master’s Mission in South Africa.

Pujya Swami Sahajananda’s audio message focused on self-surrender to the Divine, acceptance of one’s conditions and self-transformation. He said that we are responsible for our present conditions, determined by our Samskaras. We should therefore not complain, and that “We should work out our past Samskaras and not try to create new ones”. If we are placed at a certain place or under certain conditions, then it is good for one. Even if we have the ideal conditions, we may be dissatisfied. We must surrender to the Divine Power and accept that this power determines our lives. We should surrender to God’s Will wherever we are. If both faith and reason are absent, we will encounter difficulties on the spiritual path. We have to make the effort to transform ourselves. If we have “a strong desire for God, then everything works itself out…. but to get that desire for God requires Grace… It is God who can give us inspiration to realise Him”.

A delightful children’s presentation comprising a Kirtan, a Ramayan reading, messages and a birthday song, were presented with innocence and child-like love.

The celebration of Pujya Swami Sahajananda's 101st Birth Anniversary was a reaffirmation of the timeless ideals that he lived with unwavering self-surrender to Sri Swami Sivananda and to God. Pujya Swamiji's greatest legacy is not merely the magnificent institutions he established, but the countless lives he transformed through his example of humility, discipline, compassion and selfless service. The letters from Sri Swami Sivananda, stand today as enduring testimony to the extraordinary disciple that Pujya Swamiji became. He was a saint whose life was marked by complete Guru-bhakti, steadfast Sadhana, fearless perseverance and total surrender to the Divine Will. The Master's words of praise and encouragement were prophetic, for the "grand plan" that he foresaw has unfolded magnificently through Divine Life Society of South Africa. What began as the dedicated efforts of one humble disciple, has blossomed into a vibrant spiritual, educational and humanitarian movement that continues to serve thousands across South Africa and beyond.

As devotees reflected on his sacred life on this auspicious occasion, we are reminded that Pujya Swamiji's mission is far from complete. His greatest tribute will not be found merely in annual celebrations, but in devotees who continue to live his ideals with sincerity and dedication. May his radiant example continue to inspire present and future generations to cultivate purity of heart, steadfast faith, selfless service and unwavering devotion to God and Guru. In doing so, they will ensure that the spiritual light kindled by Sri Swami Sivananda, and so magnificently nurtured by Pujya Swami Sahajananda, will continue to illumine humanity for generations.

Divine Life Society of South Africa hosted a highly successful and inspiring Yoga Camp on Sunday, 21 June 2026, at the Sivananda International Cultural Centre (SICC), in La Mercy. June marks significant events in our national and spiritual calendar. This year's June Yoga Camp coincided with a triple impact of meaningful observances. The Yoga Camp incorporated Youth Day, International Day of Yoga and Father’s Day. In keeping with succession planning and to promote and train our Sivananda youth to assume responsible positions in the Society, the organisers of the Yoga Camp handed the responsibility to the youth to plan, execute and direct the Yoga Camp programme, which commenced at 6am and concluded at 12 noon.

The Yoga camp commenced on an auspicious note with a sacred Mass Homa of the Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra conducted by the fathers, being Father’s Day. The Tryambakam Homa (or Maha Mrityunjaya Homa) is an ancient Vedic fire ritual dedicated to Lord Shiva. Centred around continuous chanting of the powerful Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra and offering ghee to a copper pyramid fire, it is performed to overcome the fear of death, heal physical ailments, and to promote deep spiritual and environmental purification. The combination of the sacred Mantra and the purifying fire is said to create a profoundly healing atmosphere for the body, mind, and surrounding environment. It helps calm the mind and alleviate deep-seated fears, particularly the fear of illness and death. In June 2001, Pujya Swami Sahajananda, while speaking about the value of Agnihotra, mentioned the importance of the Tryambakam Homa. (Path of Divine Grace Volume 2). It was indeed pleasing and inspiring to hear the entire congregation in Ganga Rani chanting the Mantra in unison and at the end of each Mantra concluding with “Swaha” as the males made their sacred offerings.

In recognition of the International Day of Yoga, Mass Yoga Asana sessions for males and females were held, drawing participation from attendees of all ages. Guided by experienced instructors, participants practised a series of carefully selected postures designed to improve flexibility, balance, strength and overall well-being. 

Another significant highlight of the programme was the Mass Likhit Japa session. Hundreds of sacred names were written with concentration and devotion, allowing participants to immerse themselves in a powerful spiritual practice. Likhit Japa, which was strongly recommended by both Sri Swami Sivananda and Pujya Swami Sahajananda, combines prayer, meditation and discipline, helping to focus the mind and cultivate devotion. 

The educational dimension of the Yoga Camp featured a variety of scriptural and co-curricular lessons for all age groups. Participants explored timeless spiritual teachings that remain relevant in contemporary society, while engaging in discussions and activities that reinforced ethical values, character development and practical spirituality. These sessions encouraged participants to apply spiritual principles in their daily lives and demonstrated how ancient wisdom can provide solutions to modern-day challenges. In the presentation on “The Mystery of Divine Grace”, our young presenter said, “…..A beautiful example (of Divine Grace) comes from the life of Sri Hanuman. Sri Hanuman possessed immense strength and wisdom. Yet, he did not claim any achievement as his own. Everything was offered to Lord Rama. Because of his humility and surrender, Divine Grace flowed through him effortlessly. This teaches us that Grace enters where ego leaves”.

It must be mentioned at this stage that an important aspect of the Yoga Camp is the moulding of our little ones ─ preparing them at this tender and impressionable age to meet the challenges of youth and adult life. Lessons specifically designed for the grade 0 – 4, grades 8 – youth and post-matric, and adults were conducted in various venues.

Another innovative and eagerly anticipated activity was the “Amazing Race” with a spiritual flavour. This dynamic event combined physical activity, teamwork, problem-solving and spiritual learning. Participants moved through a series of stations where they completed challenges based on scriptural knowledge, Yoga principles, values and practical skills. The “Amazing Race” demonstrated that spiritual learning can be both engaging and enjoyable while promoting cooperation, leadership and healthy competition. 

During the Satsang, a beautifully compiled Yoga Asana power-point presentation with skilled demonstration showed clearly that Yoga Asanas, if practised regularly, can contribute significantly to radiant health. Our Divine Master, Sri Swami Sivananda furnished an all-embracing benefit of Yoga. He said, “Yoga leads the way from ignorance to wisdom, from weakness to strength, from disharmony to harmony, from hatred to love, from want to fullness, from limitations to infinitude, from imperfection to perfection, from misery to bliss”.

A thought-provoking message also featured in the Satsang from one of our youth. She said, “Just as the youth of 1976 demonstrated courage in the face of external obstacles, so too must spiritual aspirants cultivate the courage to overcome the internal obstacles that stand between themselves and the Divine”. The message concluded with a touching prayer, “Salutations and prostrations at the holy feet of our beloved Father, our dearest childhood companion, our gentle teacher, and the Lord of our hearts. O beloved Gurudev! You are the very essence of the soul within this body. Bless your Spiritual Darlings with strength of mind, body and soul, so that we may follow your teachings diligently to the very end”.

The devotional segment of the Satsang programme which featured melodious Bhajans and Kirtans to the expert accompaniment of the harmonium, sitar and tabla, left attendees feeling spiritually elevated. The refreshing introduction of the soothing and celestial sounds of the sitar, so skilfully played, added to the impact of the Satsang. 

Sumptuous breakfast and lunch Prasad were served. 

A particularly noteworthy aspect of the Yoga Camp was the outstanding leadership displayed by the youth. From planning and logistics to programme coordination and participant support, the youth assumed responsibility for every aspect of the event. Their dedication, enthusiasm, professionalism and teamwork contributed significantly to the smooth execution and success of the programme. The Yoga Camp Organisers are confident that our young protégés will be able to assume greater responsibility in future. The Yoga Camp served as tangible evidence of the Divine Life Society's commitment to empowering young people and nurturing future leaders grounded in spiritual values. 

All in all, together with the chanting, meditation, Ganga Arati, Yoga Asana session, Likhit Japa and fun and games, camp participants went home with a sense of spiritual fulfilment. 

Our next Yoga Camp will be held on Sunday,19 July, commencing at 6am at Sivananda International Cultural Centre.

Sivanandashram, Reservoir Hills, was the venue of the Satsang held to celebrate the 77th Anniversary of Divine Life Society of South Africa and the 21st Anniversary of Sivananda Ghat. The Satsang programme for the evening, which comprised Kirtans, Bhajans, readings and Pujya Swamiji’s audio message, was preceded by Ganga Arati at 5.30pm.

Sri Swami Sivananda, founder of the Divine Life Society, sent three letters to Sri V Srinivasan (Sri Swami Sahajananda) to start a branch in this country. The first letter was sent on 18 October 1949, the second on 11 November 1949 and the third on 5 June 1951. Divine Life Society of South Africa thus celebrates its anniversary on these 3 days. 

Excerpts of the letter written by Sri Gurudev dated 5 June 1951, are reproduced below. 

“Thy Kind packets of booklets. Words cannot adequately describe the sincerity of your devotion and your ardent zeal and enthusiasm to disseminate spiritual knowledge. Keep the Divine flame within you growing strong daily. May it guide the rest toward eternal bliss.

”An interesting feature in the spiritual path is that the world looks frightening to the aspirant at the outset; but, once he takes to chanting His Name and does total surrender unto Him, everything appears as His Lila. Having installed Him firmly in your heart, what is there to worry you? March boldly with majestic steps towards Him. There He stands to give you a warm welcome and to bless you with Peace, Joy and Immortality”.

In the postscript, Sri Swami Sivananda, in his personal handwriting, said, “Kindly send a copy of your photo, postcard size in black and white. Kindly open a branch of DLS in South Africa and do some silent work. The pamphlet is simply thrilling”.

Sivananda Ghat was officially opened by Pujya Swami Sahajananda on 5 June 2005. The Sivananda Ghat was inspired by Sri Swami Sivananda, who initiated the All Souls’ Day Prayer in Rishikesh, India. After a morning class the Master suddenly confronted the Ashramites with a suggestion, "From now onward the first of every month will be observed at the Ashram as 'All Souls' Day'. We should offer special prayer for the peace of all departed souls. In this modernised, materialistic world, Dharma has long ago been lost. Many religions have come into being in India itself that vehemently condemn the practice of ancestor-worship, Tarpana and Shraddha. The departed souls are in great grief. They naturally look to us to help them. We must do this”. 

In respect of the programme, the Master explained, "In the morning we should arrange for consecrated food-offerings for the departed souls. There will be a special worship in the temple. We can have poor-feeding and feeding of the Sadhus also. In the evening there will be a special Ganga worship, when lights will be floated in the Ganga in the names of the departed souls. There should be special illumination in the temple”.

Pujya Swami Sahajananda’s audio message was a dialogue with the Master in the first person. He focused on the themes of dispassion, loyalty and obedience. When Pujya Swamiji (then V. Srinivasan) was first leaving for India, he shed tears for his friends he was leaving behind.  He recounted his first meeting with Sri Gurudev and his experiences at the Ashram. The Master told him to learn to type and to make tea - which cryptically meant to spread the Master’s teachings and to serve. The Master was taciturn initially but mellowed later on, and was full of compassion and love. Pujya Swamiji told the Master, “I have no qualifications. I rather go back”, to which Sri Gurudev replied, “They will come”.  Sri Gurudev later wrote to Pujya Swamiji asking him to open a Divine Life Society Branch in South Africa and to do some silent work. Pujya Swamiji recalled that on a walk and upon his return to the FOSA settlement, the thought crossed his mind, “Gurudev, you are forming the Divine Life Society Branch. If it succeeds it is all your will. If it fails, it’s also your will”.

As we celebrate the 77th Anniversary of Divine Life Society of South Africa and the 21st Anniversary of Sivananda Ghat, we offer our deepest gratitude to Sri Swami Sivananda and to Pujya Swami Sahajananda for their visionary leadership, tireless service and spiritual inspiration. Through their unwavering dedication, countless devotees have been guided on the spiritual path, selfless service, prayer, Sadhana and spiritual discipline. These sacred milestones remind us that the greatest tribute we can offer is not merely remembrance, but active participation in the Divine Mission. Let us honour Sri Gurudev’s and Pujya Swamiji’s illustrious legacies by attending all Satsangs, Yoga Camps and all Ashram functions regularly, deepening our Sadhana and spiritual practices, serving humanity with compassion, and upholding their timeless ideals of love, purity and selfless service for generations to come. We owe it to the Divine Master and Pujya Swamiji.

May Divine Life Society of South Africa grow from strength to strength for posterity. 

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