Trishalan Govender, from left, Professor Purshottama Reddy, Guru Shankaran, Sydney Govindsamy, Pundit Lokesh Maharajh and Judge Ranjiv Nirghin worked together to compile the calendar.
Image: Supplied
A unified coalition of South Africa’s leading Hindu organisations, working in partnership with the South African Hindu Maha Sabha (SAHMS), released the Composite Hindu Festival Calendar for 2027 on May 31, which marked the 114th anniversary of the founding of the maha sabha.
This comprehensive calendar was compiled through a collaborative process involving major national bodies, including the SAHMS, the Devasthanam Foundation of South Africa, South Africa Gurumar Sangam, World Hindu Priest Organisation, Dipika, The Andhra Maha Sabha of South Africa, the International Society for Krishna Consciousness, and the Shree Sanathan Dharma Sabha of South Africa.
"Developed specifically for South African conditions, the calendar reflects precise astronomical calculations based on local geographic coordinates and lunar alignments, ensuring accurate observance of religious dates for devotees across the country," said Lokesh Maharajh, chairperson of the Priests' Council of the South African Hindu Maha Sabha.
"Due to the dynamic nature of the lunar calendar, 2027 presents several noteworthy alignments. Most significantly, Narak Chaturdashi and Deepavali (Lakshmi Pooja) will both be observed on Thursday, October 28, 2027, as the Amavasya Tithi aligns optimally with the post-sunset period on that evening. Additionally, Maha Ganesh Chaturthi offers auspicious observance opportunities on both Friday, September 3, and Saturday, September 4, 2027.
"This unified calendar represents a continued commitment by South African Hindu organisations to foster and promote consistency, cohesion, and spiritual alignment within the community, while promoting a shared approach to religious observance nationwide."
The calendar can be downloaded from the Maha Sabha’s Facebook page.