Swami spread love and unity to all
KADAMBA Kanana Swami Maharaj will be remembered for breaking racial barriers through the spiritual teachings of the International Society of Krishna Consciousness (Iskcon).
Maharaj, 69, from Heemstede in the Netherlands, died last Thursday in Vrindavan, India. He was diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer in April last year, and decided to spend the remainder of his days there and continued to preach Krishna Consciousness
Govardhana Das, co-governing body commissioner of Iskcon South Africa, said Maharaj was one of its most influential members. He said Maharaj served as a spiritual teacher, travelling to South Africa frequently over three decades.
“A white European guru sharing the teachings of ancient Vedic scriptures of India.
“He not only taught the love of God in African communities in South Africa but dedicated his life to nurturing his disciples, most of whom came from vulnerable communities and had come to him for guidance as they were searching for a deeper meaning to life.
“By teaching them the principles of bhakti yoga, taught by Iskcon, many became vegetarian over time and freely gave up all forms of intoxication for a life of meditation and spirituality.
“He had a profound impact on people from all walks of life, transcending all barriers of race and nationality.”
Das said Maharaj joined Iskcon in the 1970s.
“He undertook service and leadership roles across the world, as well as being a maestro in the rendering of devotional song and dance and also authored spiritual books. He has disciples across the world of different nationalities and races, including a significant number across South Africa who have taken up his personal guidance.”
He said Maharaj inaugurated the Soweto Festival of Song and Dance in 2007, and was renowned for dancing joyfully in the streets of Soweto, which earned him the nickname of “Soweto Swami”.
“Maharaj’s mission was to fulfil the vision and purpose of His Divine Grace Abhay Charanaravinda Bhaktivedanta Swami Srila Prabhupada, the founderacharya of Iskcon, to spread the love of God all over the world.
“The books written by His Divine Grace Abhay Charanaravinda Bhaktivedanta Swami Srila Prabhupada inspired Maharaj to follow the disciplined path of a renowned guru.
“The depth of his knowledge of the Vedic literature drew hundreds to him looking to gain an understanding of Krishna Conscious philosophy and more importantly, how to apply the principles practically in everyday life.
“His charisma and sense of humour were endearing, and we are sincerely grateful to him for his selfless service.
“Maharaj’s influence and efforts in the heart of communities in South Africa, especially Soweto, truly reflected those of achieving a ‘rainbow nation’ and uniting people in the oneness of love and compassion.”
Maharaj was placed in samadhi (tomb) in Vrindavan last Friday.