Swami Nischalananda: A pillar of strength for South African Hindus
Image: Tumi Pakkies/ Independent Newspapers
Hundreds of people watched and listened to the different addresses at the commemoration of the 100th birth anniversary and legacy of Swami Nischalananda held at Kendra Hall in Durban on Sunday.
Born Dhanagopal Naidoo in 1925 in Newcastle, Swami Nischalananda was a South African spiritual pioneer and Vedantic visionary who founded the Ramakrishna Centre of South Africa in Avoca in Glen Anil.
High Commissioner of South Africa to India, Professor Anil Sooklal, said there have been towering individuals who sometimes go unrecognised and uncelebrated, and Swami Nischalananda is one of those.
Sooklal said that often, when you speak of the Indian community of South Africa, it is unfortunately overshadowed by Mahatma Gandhi. Of course, Gandhi was a larger-than-life person. But without the Girmitiya community being in South Africa, there would be no Gandhi today.
'I think it's important for us to distinguish between the journey of Gandhi in South Africa and the journey of the Girmitiya community, which is the journey of Swami Nischalananda as well,' Sooklal said. 'Without minimising one or the other, they are both equally important.'
Video Player is loading.
Play Video
Play
Unmute
Current Time
0:00
/
Duration
-:-
Loaded :
0%
Stream Type LIVE
Seek to live, currently behind live
LIVE
Remaining Time
-
0:00
This is a modal window.
Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window.
Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan
Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan
Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan
Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque
Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps
Reset
restore all settings to the default values Done
Close Modal Dialog
End of dialog window.
Advertisement
Next
Stay
Close ✕
Sooklal said the religious text, faith and Gods and Goddesses brought by indentured labourers (Girmitiya) sustained Hindus when they were treated like slaves.
He said 95% of the Indians who came to South Africa were Hindu, but today they are about 40%.
'If Swami Nischalananda were living today, do you think he'd be happy? And we are partly to blame for that because we became ashamed of our own identity,' Sooklal said.
He said that in light of Hindus being denied having priests nurturing society, Swami Nischalananda rose, and he was fired with a deep passion for wanting to do something for his community.
Sooklal repeated, had Swami Nischalananda been living today, what would be his assessment of the Hindu community in South Africa?
'And I can tell you, he will not be happy. And you know the reasons why. You know the reasons why,' Sooklal said.
'We are a powerful community, our great, great, grandparents came here, penniless, and they laid a solid foundation. They brought the culture, they brought the tradition, they brought the religion and built hundreds of temples with the few pennies that they earned,' Sooklal said.
He said their sacrifice forms an integral fabric of this multicultural, fantastic society that embodies the make up of South Africans.
'Swami Nischalananda sacrificed so that we can enjoy today.'
From left: Dr Nelistra Singh, High Commissioner of South Africa to India Professor Anil Sooklal and Ramakrishna Centre of South Africa chairperson Jugdeesh Gungadeen.
Image: Tumi Pakkies/ Independent Newspapers
Swami Swatmaramanandaji Maharaj said Swami Nischalananda did not live for himself but for others.
Maharaj said he observed the running of the Ramakrishna Centre and can see the work and the foundation laid by Swami Nischalananda.
He said the name Nischalananda in Sanskrit means still, unwavering, serene, and Swami Nischalananda embodied this.
Ramakrishna Centre of South Africa chairperson Jugdeesh Gungadeen said Swami Nischalananda's mission was to serve selflessly, spiritually uplift and guide the Hindu community in South Africa.
'At a time when the community faced discrimination, marginalisation and the erosion of identity, Swami Nischalananda gave South African Hindus a spiritual anchor.
'In today's world of distraction, anxiety and infodemia, his teachings remind us to live with focus, fearlessness and faith. He taught that true power lies not in external success but in inner clarity and service. His life shows that spirituality is not outdated; it is the foundation of resilience and fulfilment.'
Attendee Steven Surujballie said they hail from Newcastle, like Swami Nischalananda and left at 5am to attend the event.
On attending the event, Surujballie said: 'It's very important because the founder was born in Newcastle.'
He said they will have a function in Newcastle in October, the closing celebrations of Swami Nischalananda.
thobeka.ngema@inl.co.za
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
The South African
12 minutes ago
- The South African
Malema urges Zimbabweans to seek jobs at home
Julius Malema, leader of South Africa's Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), has urged Zimbabweans to seek employment in their own country rather than competing for jobs in South Africa. Malema made the remarks on Saturday during the Siyabonga rally in Seshego, Polokwane, Limpopo, where the EFF celebrated its by-election victory in July. This marks a shift from his 2022 stance, when he encouraged Zimbabweans to work in South Africa, emphasising that it was their home. Malema stressed that Zimbabweans should pursue jobs in their municipalities instead of taking positions in South Africa. 'We are not saying Zimbabweans should not be given jobs, but they must get jobs from their own municipalities,' Malema said, pointing to Harare and other Zimbabwean cities as places where employment opportunities should be sought. He cited South Africa's youth unemployment rate as alarming and unsustainable. He said this is one reason the EFF prioritises policies directing municipal tenders and other local job opportunities to South African workers. The EFF now prioritises employment for South African citizens, regardless of language skills or connections. Historically, Malema has supported African unity and encouraged Zimbabweans to participate in their national elections. His recent statements signal a more protectionist approach to employment, focusing on South African citizens' rights and opportunities. Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1. Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X, and Bluesky for the latest news.
The Citizen
2 hours ago
- The Citizen
Ramaphosa not likely to act as Motshekga defends SANDF chief's Iran trip
No disciplinary action will be taken against either Maphwanya or Motshekga. Defence and Military Veterans Minister Angie Motshekga has come to the defence of South African National Defence Force (SANDF) chief Rudzani Maphwanya following backlash over his recent remarks during a visit to Iran. This week, Maphwanya sparked a diplomatic stir after claiming South Africa and Iran had 'common goals.' His comments drew criticism from International Relations and Cooperation Minister Ronald Lamola and the Presidency, as they felt the SANDF chief had stepped into foreign policy matters. ALSO READ: Ministries distance themselves from SANDF chief's comments in Iran President Cyril Ramaphosa's office clarified that he had not been informed of or approved Maphwanya's visit to Iran, but highlighted that the authorisation came from Motshekga, which falls under her ministerial responsibility. Presidency spokesperson Vincent Magwenya explained that Maphwanya's remarks were unhelpful, particularly as the South African government is engaged in a 'very delicate exercise' to reset diplomatic relations with the United States (US), which has ongoing disputes with Iran. Maphwanya to meet Ramaphosa as Motshekga back SANDF chief Amid calls from the Democratic Alliance (DA) for a court martial against the SANDF general, Ramaphosa is scheduled to meet Maphwanya next week. According to the Sunday Times, no disciplinary action will be taken against either Maphwanya or Motshekga. Motshekga defended the SANDF chief, insisting that his visit to Iran was entirely appropriate. 'It's a coincidence that it [the trip] coincides with the tensions between Iran and the US and that we are negotiating on tariffs. READ MORE: Ramaphosa unaware of 'ill-advised' Iran trip by SANDF chief – Magwenya 'This invitation is from last year. I sanctioned it last year. The event was postponed, and they then communicated back to say let's continue,' she told the publication. The minister also told News24 that Maphwanya's comments had been misinterpreted. 'Is it because Iran is in conflict with America that we are now also not allowed to touch Iran. We have our own bilateral relations with countries,' she said. SACP reacts The South African Communist Party (SACP) similarly defended Maphwanya, arguing that his statements accurately reflected South Africa's foreign policy. The party further asserted that his comments should not be compared to the actions of DA MP Andrew Whitfield, who was dismissed for travelling to the US on an unapproved trip while serving as deputy minister of trade, industry, and competition. 'This comparison is incorrect, as Maphwanya's visit took place within the framework of military regulations with the full knowledge of the minister of defence whereas Whitfield's visit was unauthorised,' the SACP said in a statement. SACP denounces the manufactured public controversy following the visit of the Chief of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) to Iran. The visit was part of South Africa's long-standing bilateral relations with Iran. August 16, 2025 Maphwanya, appointed by Ramaphosa in 2021, is reportedly set to retire on 1 December this year. Although the standard army retirement age is 60, he was requested to remain in service until the age of 65. He will reach this age in November. NOW READ: Explicit, obscene videos in uniform are unacceptable, SANDF warns members
IOL News
2 hours ago
- IOL News
Rhodes University honours Justice Lex Mpati with law building naming
The law faculty of Rhodes University will be named after Justice Lex Mpati. Image: Christelle du Toit Rhodes University's Faculty of Law will officially name its iconic law building in honour of one of its most distinguished alumni and the revered outgoing Chancellor, Justice Lex Mpati. This forms part of its 120th anniversary, marking more than a century of academic excellence and profound contributions to the South African legal landscape. As a testament to this enduring legacy and its pivotal role in shaping the nation's jurisprudence, it will honour Justice Lex Mpati by naming the faculty after him. 'This occasion signifies a commitment to recognising visionary leaders and inspiring future generations who will uphold the rule of law across South Africa,' Judge Gerald Bloem, Council Chairperson of Rhodes University said. He added that Justice Mpati's life and career embody the core values our institution promotes, which includes integrity, excellence, and social justice. 'His jurisprudence consistently demonstrates a deep commitment to constitutional values, like equality and human dignity,' said Judge Bloem. Rhodes University Vice-Chancellor, Professor Sizwe Mabizela said: 'Justice Mpati was a father figure to me and someone who was a source of wisdom. He is an integrity personified – a quintessential gentleman and the embodiment of humility.' Justice Mpati was the first African to be Chancellor of Rhodes University. Dean of Law, Professor Michelle Karels, meanwhile said coming from a background where he experienced the injustices of apartheid firsthand, Justice Mpati's rise to prominence represents the transformation the university seeks to inspire in their students – using law as a tool for positive social change. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ 'Justice Mpati's leadership has demonstrated his commitment to accountability, transparency, and ethical governance – principles we aim to instill in our future legal professionals,' he said. The naming ceremony, set to take place on August 26 at the Rhodes University Law Building in Makhanda, marks a pivotal moment in the 120-year celebrations and will convene an esteemed assembly of South Africa's most prominent legal figures, judicial leaders, and valued alumni. It is said that this gathering serves not only to celebrate Justice Mpati's extraordinary legacy but also to ensure that the Lex Mpati name will stand as a daily reminder of what can be achieved through dedication to legal principles, commitment to education, and unwavering integrity. Justice Mpati was born in Durban in 1949 and he obtained his BA in 1982 and LLB in 1984 from Rhodes University. He rose from a legal clerk to becoming President of the Supreme Court of Appeal. He was a former Judge of the Eastern Cape Division and later President of the Supreme Court of Appeal. He was also an acting judge in the Constitutional Court in 2007. Beyond his judicial work, Justice Mpati chaired the Commission of Inquiry into allegations of impropriety at the Public Investment Corporation (PIC). He served as Chancellor of Rhodes University for 13 years, bridging the world of academic legal education and judicial practice. His lectures, mentorship, and guidance have inspired generations of law students, many of whom have served in various capacities in our legal system. He has consistently advocated for access to justice and legal education for all South Africans.
