Latest news with #HinduMahaSabha
IOL News
14-07-2025
- Entertainment
- IOL News
Embracing Tamil heritage: Sadie Kandan's cultural mission
Sadie Kandan. Image: Supplied WHEN Sadie Kandan returns from a two week sponsored cultural tour of Tamil Nadu in India, she intends to impart her knowledge to youth to "foster a sense of belonging to Tamil culture". Kandan, 25, from Tongaat, is a marketing manager, and the secretary of the Shree Veeraboga Emperumal Temple. She is also an executive member of the South African Hindu Maha Sabha. Kandan was recently selected by the Tamil Nadu Government to participate in a cultural programme across the state. It is aimed at showcasing the rich tapestry of Tamil civilisation. She will travel to India at the end of the month. At the end of the tour, Kandan said she would be formally conferred with the title, Cultural Ambassador of Tamil Nadu. 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 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. Next Stay Close ✕ Kandan said her family had attended the Shree Veeraboga Emperumal Temple since she was a baby, and that her faith was unwavering. 'As a baby, my grandmother used to take me to the temple for prayers and various festivals. This is when my love for religion and culture began. Later, my guru actively involved me in prayer. This included preparing and performing prayers," said Kandan. She said she was also part of the temple's Sunday school and this was where her love for music and dance started. "Tradition and culture are essential because they provide a sense of identity, belonging, and continuity. While growing up in a South Indian family, I have been influenced by our rich cultural heritage. Our traditions, such as celebrating Pongal and Tamil New Year, have taught me the importance of community, respect for elders, and gratitude for nature's bounty. "The Tamil culture's emphasis on language, literature, and art has also shaped my perspective and appreciation for the world. The works of great Tamil poets and philosophers, like Thiruvalluvar and Bharathi, have inspired me to embrace values like compassion, justice, and self-discipline. 'For me, tradition and culture are not just about rituals or customs. They are about the values, stories, and experiences that have been passed down through generations. They remind me of my roots and help me stay connected to my community. By embracing and honouring my Tamil heritage, I feel a sense of pride, purpose, and responsibility to carry forward these traditions in a way that respects the past while embracing the present.' Kandan said it was an honour to be part of the cultural programme, which entailed visiting temples and ancestral villages and attending music and dance festivals. "I hope to gain as much knowledge as possible to impart to others when I return. There is a lot one can gain from such a program such as understanding the history and traditions from the villages and developing a further sense of understanding of Tamil culture. 'By learning about their cultural and religious heritage, younger generations can gain a deeper understanding of their roots, traditions, and community. This knowledge helps them develop a sense of pride, self-awareness, and appreciation for the diversity that makes our world richer. 'Moreover, these values often emphasise the importance of community, family, and social harmony, which are vital for creating a more compassionate and inclusive society. By teaching these values to the younger generation, we can empower them to become thoughtful, engaged, and active citizens who are equipped to make a positive impact in the world.' She said by taking small steps to learn about and celebrate one's heritage, one could unlock a more authentic and fulfilling life. The POST
IOL News
14-07-2025
- Politics
- IOL News
Maha Sabha hosts webinar on national dialogue
Swami Vedanand Saraswati will be one of the speakers at the event. GIVEN the ever-increasing challenges, open and constructive dialogue is paramount for progress and harmony in our nation. The South African Hindu Maha Sabha will host a thought-provoking webinar on July 19 at 2pm to engage in the national dialogue to reflect, contribute, and shape a united, inclusive, and just South Africa. Also to address real-life challenges and dilemmas has been an essential feature of Hinduism since its inception, and scriptures often feature this method for conveying spiritual principles for righteous living. The most prominent example would be the dialogue between Lord Krishna and Arjuna in the Bhagavad Gita.
IOL News
10-07-2025
- General
- IOL News
South African Hindu Maha Sabha seeks teachers for Indian languages
The South African Hindu Maha Sabha is encouraging vernacular languages and is in search of people who can teach Telugu, Hindi, Tamil, Gujarati and Sanskrit. Indian languages contribute to local festivals, music, food and art. This enriches the multicultural fabric of South Africa. Professor Brij Maharaj, deputy president of the South African Hindu Maha Sabha (SAHMS) said strategies to promote Indian languages were discussed at the recent leadership summit with affiliates hosted by the Maha Sabha. Maharaj stated that the Maha Sabha is working on two strategies. "Firstly, as a starting point, the Maha Sabha is embarking on an initiative to identify and develop a database of those who can teach Telugu, Hindi, Tamil, Gujarati and Sanskrit. "After creating a database of teachers, the Maha Sabha, in conjunction and in partnership with the national language bodies, will host a workshop to consider options and strategies to promote the teaching of Indian languages. Online options will be at the top of the agenda," said Maharaj.
IOL News
20-05-2025
- Politics
- IOL News
Ranjiv Nirghin takes the helm as president of the South African Hindu Maha Sabha
South African Hindu Maha Sabha deputy president Professor Brij Maharaj (left), congratulates Advocate Ranjiv Nirghin, newly-elected South African Hindu Maha Sabha president. Image: Facebook In a unanimous decision, Advocate Ranjiv Nirghin has been elected as the president of the South African Hindu Maha Sabha. The election, held over the weekend, marks a pivotal moment following the passing of the late Ashwin Trikamjee, who held the position until March. Nirghin was unanimously elected as president of the South African Hindu Maha Sabha in terms of its constitution at its council meeting on Saturday, the organisation announced. South African Hindu Maha Sabha Deputy President Professor Brij Maharaj said Nirghin is not new to the organisation. He has served the Maha Sabha for many years in various capacities. These include the youth coordinator, council, and executive member. 'He also brings a wealth of experience as the President of the Midlands Hindu Society in Pietermaritzburg,' Maharaj said. Maharaj stated that while it is impossible to fill Trikamjee's shoes, Nirghin is committed to upholding Hindu Dharma, the vision and mission of the South African Hindu Maha Sabha, specifically promoting unity in diversity, irrespective of our linguistic and sectarian beliefs, within a multi-religious and multi-cultural society in South Africa, in keeping with the motto of the Maha Sabha – Vasudhaiv Kutumbakum – which means 'the world is one family'. Organisations and the average person congratulated Nirghin on his appointment, some also cited his abilities based on past positions. The Hindi Shiksha Sangh Midlands Region said: 'We wish you and your team victory as you embark on protecting and promoting Hindu Dharma. May the blessings of Shri Raam be your guiding light.' Merisha Lalla said: 'Sending the biggest congratulations to Advocate Ranjiv Nirghin on his election as president of the SA Hindu Maha Sabha. From first meeting him 25 years ago to our engagements over the years, I know he will do us all proud.... Well done Ranjiv Bhai.' Rishi Maharajh said: 'Congratulations. Democracy in action. Based on Advocate Nirghin's track record and commitment to Dharma, I know that the Sabha's work will progress well.' Vishal Surbun said Nirghin chaired the Hindu Students Association at the University of Natal-Durban in the late 1980s, bringing decades of leadership experience. 'I feel confident that the Sabha will flourish with him at the helm,' Surbun said. [email protected]
Zawya
20-03-2025
- Politics
- Zawya
President Cyril Ramaphosa is deeply saddened by the passing of Mr Ashwin Trikamjee
President Cyril Ramaphosa is deeply saddened by the passing of Mr Ashwin Trikamjee, President of the South African Hindu Maha Sabha and Chairperson of the National Religious Leaders Forum. The President offers his condolences to the family, friends and associates of this outstanding icon of service to our nation who has passed on at the age of 80. Mr Trikamjee was an attorney who served as president of the then Natal Law Society, president of the Association of Law Societies of SA, chairperson of the African Regional Forum of the International Bar Association and member of the Human Rights Committee of the IBA. As a Black Consciousness activist, he also led the Durban Central component of the Natal Indian Congress, and he was a vice-president of the South African Football Association. Mr Trikamjee's deep spiritual devotion extended beyond his Hindu affiliation as he advocated tolerance and collaboration among the diverse religious communities in our country. President Ramaphosa said: 'Ashwin Trikamjee led a life of diverse pursuits which he exercised to improve the lives of communities and the impact of organisations in which he served. 'We will miss his gentle, serene presence, wise counsel and humble yet industrious service to many sectors of our nation. 'May his soul rest in peace.' Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa.
