PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE
More than 17,000 devotees gathered at Chatsworth Stadium in Durban for the historic “Man to Hanuman” programme organised by Chinmaya Mission South Africa as part of the global Chinmaya Amrit Mahotsav celebrating 75 years of the Chinmaya Movement. The turnout, far exceeding the expected 10,000 participants, made it one of the largest public celebrations of Sanatana Dharma ever held outside India.
The event received added significance after Prime Minister Narendra Modi sent a special message congratulating Chinmaya Mission South Africa on its Amrit Mahotsav celebrations. In his message, the Prime Minister appreciated the Mission’s efforts to preserve India’s spiritual heritage and described the collective chanting of the Hanuman Chalisa as a symbol of harmony, devotion and compassion. He also acknowledged the Indian diaspora’s contribution to South Africa’s social and cultural development.
Thousands of devotees travelled from across KwaZulu-Natal and neighbouring provinces, many arriving in over 80 buses, to participate in the mass recitation of the Hanuman Chalisa. The chanting was led by Padma Shri awardee and renowned devotional singer Anup Jalota along with singer-actor Anuja Sahai, creating a deeply devotional atmosphere throughout the stadium.
The gathering was addressed by Swami Abhedananda Sarasvati, who has completed 20 years of spiritual service in South Africa. Calling upon devotees to remain rooted in their spiritual heritage while promoting harmony and selfless service, he inspired the audience to embrace their faith with confidence. Responding to his call, thousands echoed the declaration, “I Am A Proud Hindu,” while emphasising that such pride should strengthen unity and contribute to the welfare of society.
One of the most memorable moments came during the concluding recitation of the Hanuman Chalisa, when devotees waved saffron flags bearing the image of Lord Hanuman. The entire stadium presented a striking visual of devotion, unity and cultural pride.
Anup Jalota paid tribute to Chinmaya Mission’s 75-year global journey and praised Swami Abhedananda’s contribution in strengthening Indian cultural and spiritual values in South Africa. He noted that Swami Abhedananda is the longest-serving Hindu monk from India in Africa and credited him with inspiring generations to reconnect with their roots.
The programme was attended by KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thami Ntuli, who joined devotees in the celebrations, waved the saffron flag and congratulated Chinmaya Mission on its remarkable service to society.
The large-scale event was supported by nearly 200 volunteers who managed logistics and crowd movement. Every participant received a welcome kit containing spiritual literature, photographs of Lord Hanuman and Pujya Gurudev Swami Chinmayananda, Sindoor Prasad, water and fruits. Around 100 volunteers also prepared and distributed more than 20,000 meal boxes as Mahaprasad. In addition, volunteers spent nearly two weeks preparing 27,000 traditional Rhots, which were offered to Lord Hanuman before being distributed among devotees.
The programme concluded as a remarkable celebration of faith, service and unity, leaving a lasting impression on South Africa’s Hindu community and reaffirming Chinmaya Mission’s enduring contribution to preserving and promoting Sanatana Dharma across the world.
