Gauteng, South Africa: Centenary Celebrations – Sr Sathya Sai Shata Varsha Janma Mahotsavam,
The Gauteng region gathered in profound unity on 30 November 2025 to commemorate the Sri Sathya Sai Shata Varsha Janma Mahotsavam, the 100th year of the Advent of Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba. Hosted at the BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir in Northriding, the celebration drew nearly 1800 devotees, families, and well-wishers, marking a milestone that blended spirituality, culture, devotion, and service into a single, unforgettable offering.
Guided by the theme “In Gratitude We Grow, In His Love We Glow,” the event reflected months of meticulous preparation undertaken by centres and volunteers across Gauteng. Planning meetings, rehearsals, logistics coordination, and continuous seva came together seamlessly, but more importantly, they came together with one intention: to express collective gratitude at the Lotus Feet of the Lord. The result was a celebration characterized by both emotional depth and professional excellence.
The auspicious atmosphere was set from the very beginning with the Sri Maha Ganapathi Homam, invoking Lord Ganesha’s blessings and sanctifying the day with sacred chants and ceremonial fire. From this moment onwards, the programme flowed effortlessly into a profound expression of devotion and unity. A particularly moving feature was the Gratitude Procession, where each Sai Centre carried its own Gratitude Booklet—filled with reflections, anecdotes, and heartfelt messages from devotees—into the auditorium. As they entered, the Young Adults of Gauteng offered melodious bhajans, creating an atmosphere of reverence that resonated deeply with all present.
The cultural segment of the day added remarkable richness to the celebration. A dynamic Qawwali ensemble infused the hall with devotional intensity, while an exquisite Bharatanatyam performance offered a classical expression of surrender and beauty. Later, the Musical Offering brought together singers and musicians from across Gauteng in a unified tribute to Swami. Their harmonies and instrumentation, delivered with precision and emotional sincerity, were widely praised as one of the defining moments of the programme.
Service remained a central expression of gratitude throughout the day. In honour of Swami’s message of selfless love, the Centenary Blood Drive exceeded all expectations by collecting an outstanding 135 pints of blood—a meaningful and life-affirming offering aligned with the spirit of the Mahotsavam. This collective achievement reflected the deep commitment of devotees to extend Swami’s teachings beyond the walls of the celebration itself.
A particularly inspiring contribution came from the Sai Spiritual Education Wing, whose grand production, “The Golden Footprints,” featured 180 children from eight centres. Through drama, dance, narration, and music, the children traced the divine life and mission of Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba, including His historic 1968 visit to Africa. Their innocence, discipline, and devotion captivated the audience and served as a powerful reminder that the future of Swami’s mission rests securely in the hands of the young.
Adding to the significance of the day were special messages delivered by representative from the Office of the High Commissioner of India, SSSGC Zone 9 Chair Br. Soobrie Naidoo, and SSSGCSA National Council President Br. Reuben Naidoo. Each address acknowledged the spiritual importance of the Centenary, and Swami’s mission.
Behind the scenes, countless individuals contributed quietly and tirelessly to the success of the event. Teams responsible for hospitality, décor, audio-visual production, food and beverage, health and safety, exhibitions, parking, registration, and programme management worked with discipline and dedication. Their collective efforts ensured that every element—from staging and lighting to flow and logistics—met a standard of excellence worthy of the occasion.
The celebration also highlighted the impactful work of the Sri Sathya Sai School in Lenasia South, reinforcing Swami’s enduring message of values-based education. The school’s ongoing commitment to nurturing character, compassion, and leadership among its learners stands as a living embodiment of the Centenary theme.
In the days following the event, messages of appreciation poured in from devotees and members of the wider community. Many described the celebration as world-class, spiritually uplifting, seamless in its execution, and profoundly moving. The sentiment was unanimous: Gauteng had not merely organised an event—Gauteng had offered an act of love.
As the closing arathi brought the day to a gentle conclusion, one truth was felt universally by all who attended: the Sri Sathya Sai Shata Varsha Janma Mahotsavam was a divine blessing to witness. It was a reminder that gratitude strengthens devotion, love amplifies unity, and Swami’s mission continues through every act of service we undertake. The glow of this Centenary celebration will endure as Gauteng steps forward into the next chapter of His mission, inspired, united, and guided by His love.
