More than 15 000 people from across South Africa gathered at Chatsworth Stadium on Sunday, 5 July, for one of the country’s largest Hindu gatherings, hosted by Chinmaya Mission South Africa to mark the 75th anniversary of the Global Chinmaya Movement.
Held under the theme, ‘Man to HANUMAN’, the event brought together worshippers of all ages from KwaZulu-Natal and beyond for a morning of collective prayer centred on the Hanuman Chalisa, a revered Hindu devotional hymn. Lord Hanuman is regarded as a symbol of strength, courage, humility, selfless service and unwavering devotion.
Many worshippers waved saffron flags, transforming the stadium into a sea of colour as they chanted the Hanuman Chalisa through 27 rounds of collective prayer. The gathering was led by Pujya Swami Abhedananda, Spiritual In-Charge of Chinmaya Mission South Africa, alongside internationally acclaimed devotional singer Shri Anup Jalota, who travelled from India especially for the occasion. KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli was among the dignitaries who attended the gathering.
This celebration formed part of the global commemorations marking the 75th anniversary of the Chinmaya Movement and, according to organisers, was not only a celebration of faith but also an opportunity to unite communities around the shared values of peace, compassion and unity.
Pavan Maharaj, trustee of Chinmaya Mission South Africa, said the response surpassed expectations.
He said: “The event exceeded all our expectations. ‘Man to HANUMAN’ was about far more than the number of people gathered in one place. It was about witnessing thousands of individuals standing together with one shared intention of peace, devotion and unity. The atmosphere throughout the day was truly uplifting, and we are deeply grateful to every person who travelled from near and far to be part of this historic occasion.”
Free community Yatra buses transported thousands of worshippers to the Chatsworth Stadium, where families, youth, senior citizens and visitors from different cultural and religious backgrounds gathered in a shared expression of faith. Organisers said the diverse attendance reflected the event’s emphasis on inclusivity and shared community values.
Another highlight was the community-led “Flower of Flour” initiative, which encouraged members of the public to donate flour, butter, ghee and sugar towards the offering of 27 000 rhots to Lord Hanuman. Organisers said the initiative demonstrated the community’s willingness to contribute collectively, with thousands of donations received in the weeks leading up to the gathering.
Following the prayers, attendees received energised Sindhoor Prasad, a sacred keepsake traditionally associated with blessings and protection, before sharing Lunch Prasad, reinforcing the event’s focus on fellowship and community.
Maharaj said the significance of the gathering extended beyond the day’s programme: “What we witnessed was the power of people coming together in faith, humility and mutual respect. In a world that often focuses on what divides us, this gathering reminded us of what is possible when people unite around values of compassion, service and hope. We believe every person who attended has become part of a defining moment that will inspire generations to come.”
The celebration concluded after a morning of prayer, devotional music and reflection, as Chinmaya Mission South Africa marked a milestone in the organisation’s history.
