Rambhajan Festival at the Durban Diwali Festival.
Image: Supplied
The South African Raam Bhajan Association (Sarba), in conjunction with the South African Hindu Maha Sabha (SAHMS), will host a vibrant and spiritually uplifting Raam Bhajan Festival on April 26 that promises an afternoon and evening filled with energetic Raam bhajana performances, featuring 13 groups from across South Africa.
The participating groups include the Shree Radha Krishna Bhajana, Thirupathie Seva Raam Bhajan Group, Campbells Town Shree Raam Bhajan Group, Shree Pranava Bhajan Group, DL Roberts Andhra Bhajan Group and the Sri Suria Narayan Temple Bhajan Group.
"Raam Bhajan is a traditional Telugu thanksgiving prayer brought to South Africa by our forefathers from villages in Andhra Pradesh, India. The practice involves the recitation of sacred stories from the Ramayana through devotional songs - many composed by the saint Bhadrachala Ramadasu and some by our forefathers - accompanied by rhythmic dancing around the “chettu” (tree), which is ceremoniously placed on the sacred Gaddi," said Trishalan Govender an executive member if the SAHMS.
"Beyond its religious significance, the festival also serves as a celebration of both Andhra heritage and South African identity. Taking place on the eve of Freedom Day, the event highlights unity, cultural pride, and shared history. It also provides a platform for strengthening bonds between cultural leaders and bhajan groups from diverse linguistic and regional backgrounds."
Govender said the Sarba had emerged as a dynamic force within the Hindu cultural landscape, boasting one of the largest youth followings among Hindu organisations in the country.
"The growing popularity of Raam Bhajan across South Africa reflects a resurgence of interest in cultural traditions, particularly among younger generations. As the national coordinating body for Raam Bhajan groups, Sarba operates as an active affiliate of the SAHMS. Guided by its motto, “Worshipping God in Action,” the organisation is committed to promoting Hindu culture and enhancing community welfare."
He said its objectives extended beyond cultural preservation to fostering unity, discipline, respect, and social responsibility.
"The Sarba also actively supports initiatives aimed at addressing social challenges such as poverty, crime, and deprivation, while encouraging collaboration with like-minded organisations locally and internationally."
The event will be held from 1pm to 9pm at the Stri Vishnu Temple Trust on Havenside Drive, Havenside, Chatsworth.
For more information, call Deshnee Reddy at 081 248 3797 or Davey Moonsamy at 078 915 7613.