2nd Cosmic 108 Hanuman Chalisa Havan (24th August 2013)
Devotees of the Chinmaya Mission ashram in Durban felt the divinity in the air as they gathered in the early hours of the morning. Weeks of meticulous planning and preparations culminated on the 24th August 2013 at the Curries Fountain Stadium grounds. It was a bright beautiful day with clear blue skies and smiling faces all around. For the second consecutive year under the guidance of Pujya Swami Abhedanandaji, the 108 Cosmic Hanuman Chalisa Chanting and havan was held.
The program commenced with the chanting of Ganapati Atharvashirsha, Navagraha and Hanumanji’s pooja. Swami Abhedananda chanted the first Hanuman Chalisa generating a vibrant mood. The fires generated by the havan purified central Durban and its surrounding areas. The atmosphere was spiritually charged with the reverberating chanting of the Shri Hanuman Chalisa by the various musical artists together with the crowd. The grand function attracted enthusiastic participation from more than 3000 people. Many partook of the delicious lunch prasad provided and refreshment stalls were provided for those that were observing fast. Gift bags were presented to the priests and musical artists who attended.
Pujya Swamiji released a beautiful souvenir titled ‘Samarpanam’ based on the glories of Shri Ram. Swamiji also spoke on Hanumanji’s qualities as a devotee and that everyone should try to emulate the same in their lives. It was an auspicious, memorable occasion and an elevating experience for all those who attended the event. The full day event was telecasted live by South Africa’s popular Radio Hindvani. The Mission members thanked Swamiji without whom the grand and momentous event would not have been possible or successful. Gratitude was also expressed to all the volunteers and sponsors whose generous support made such a massive event possible for two consecutive years. The Mission members felt ever indebted to Pujya Gurudev for giving such an inspiring platform to practice goodness and evolve further.