KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Honourable Thamsanqa Ntuli, delivered the keynote address during a dual celebration honouring the 139th Birth Anniversary of Sri Swami Sivananda Maharaj, affectionately known as Gurudev, on Sunday, 13 September 2026.
The occasion celebrated the life and enduring legacy of Swami Sivananda, founder of the Divine Life Society, a global humanitarian organisation founded on the principles of selfless service, spiritual development and service to humanity.
Premier Ntuli reflected on the contribution of Swami Sivananda and the Divine Life Society in promoting compassion, service and peaceful coexistence among people of different faiths and backgrounds.
The Society has, through its teachings and humanitarian work, promoted the principle of selfless service across the world and encouraged religious tolerance and mutual respect.
Central to its philosophy is the belief that different religions ultimately lead humanity towards one God, reinforcing a message of unity despite differences in religious traditions and practices.
Premier Ntuli highlighted the importance of faith-based organisations in strengthening communities, promoting moral regeneration and fostering social cohesion.
He said religious institutions continue to play a valuable role in encouraging compassion, service to others and respect for the dignity of all people.
The celebration also marked the official relaunch of the ashram’s yoga centre following extensive repairs necessitated by storm damage.
The reopening of the facility represented an important milestone for the Divine Life Society and the community it serves, restoring a space dedicated to physical, mental and spiritual wellbeing.
Premier Ntuli commended the organisation for its resilience in restoring the facility and for continuing its humanitarian and community-focused work.
The Provincial Government recognises faith-based organisations as important partners in building peaceful, compassionate and cohesive communities across KwaZulu-Natal.
The 139th Birth Anniversary celebration provided an opportunity not only to remember the life of Swami Sivananda, but also to reflect on the enduring values of selfless service, tolerance, compassion and unity that defined his teachings.
Premier Ntuli called on communities to continue nurturing these values and to use religious and cultural diversity as a foundation for building greater understanding and social cohesion across the province.
KwaZulu-Natal, Inspiring New Hope.
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