by Shiv Darshan Yoga Vidyalaya

Shiv Darshan Yoga Vidyalaya, Chennai, joyfully celebrated the sacred birth anniversary of Sri Swami Sivananda Maharaj on Sunday, 6 September 2026, at our Chennai Ashram.

The programme was personally conducted and guided by Swami Gambhirananda, with the blessings of our revered Founder, Swami Vajrapani. The celebration was envisioned as a gathering for children, devotees, and well‑wishers to remember the life and teachings of Gurudev Swami Sivananda, and to experience the spirit of yoga, devotion, service, and community.

Honouring Gurudev’s Message

Swami Sivananda, one of the great spiritual luminaries of modern India, dedicated his life to the service of humanity and the spread of Yoga and Vedanta. His timeless message — “Serve, Love, Give, Purify, Meditate, Realise” — continues to inspire seekers across the world.

Swami Gambhirananda reminded the gathering that Gurudev’s teachings are not merely ideals, but practical guidelines for living a life of compassion, purity, and selfless service.

Special Celebration for Children

From 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM, a vibrant programme was conducted for children, blending joy with discipline. Under the guidance of the Vidyalaya teachers and volunteers, the children engaged in:

– Yoga Asanas and Pranayama

– Meditative and mindful activities

– Fellowship over lunch

– Fun and engaging group activities

This initiative introduced children to yoga in an experiential manner, while instilling values of kindness, sharing, discipline, and spiritual living. Swami Gambhirananda encouraged the children to see yoga not just as physical practice, but as a way of cultivating inner strength and compassion.

Kirtan, Havan and Prasad

The afternoon session (3:00 PM to 4:00 PM) brought devotees together for soulful Kirtan, sacred Havan, and distribution of Prasad. The chanting and devotional participation created a serene and uplifting atmosphere, allowing everyone to remember Gurudev Swami Sivananda and reflect upon his eternal teachings.

Swami Gambhirananda emphasised that such collective practices strengthen the spirit of unity and devotion, reminding us that yoga is not only individual discipline but also shared fellowship.

Living the Teachings

The celebration was not merely an observance of a birth anniversary, but a reminder of the values that Gurudev stood for — love, compassion, selfless service, purity of thought, meditation, and the quest for Self‑realisation.

As Swami Gambhirananda beautifully expressed, “Every upasana, every act of service, must make us more loving, more humble, and more compassionate. This is the true offering to Gurudev.”

Gratitude

Shiv Darshan Yoga Vidyalaya expresses heartfelt gratitude to all the children, parents, devotees, teachers, volunteers, and well‑wishers who participated and contributed to making the celebration meaningful and memorable.

With the blessings of Swami Gambhirananda and Swami Vajrapani, may Gurudev Swami Sivananda’s teachings continue to inspire us to serve others, love all, give generously, purify ourselves, meditate deeply, and realise our true nature.