Durban, South Africa
South Africa and Me
I started coming to South Africa
approximately ten years after apartheid
was dissolved. Apartheid refers to the separation of the races when a white
minority ruled. I had not witnessed the
changes the country went through when Nelson Mandela influenced them. What I do know is there is much dissatisfaction
by the public with the current rulers in South Africa.
This spirit of being disheartened regarding
political policies is a global issue.
What can be said? There is a wish
that morality (dharma) could reign
supreme if spirituality can’t. I recall
something our guru said, “If you can’t be a sadhu
(holy man) at least be a gentleman.”
Changes?
In South Africa? Well I can only
say I’ve seen changes in Krishna devotee’s lives. I started coming to South Africa to assist in
the entertainment for the Chariot Festivals held during the Easter
weekend. With the help of the organizers,
we have succeeded in making the drama the biggest drawing card. The actors I’ve been working with, starting
in 2000, are a bit older and I’m working with their offspring now.
Paramananda is an example of this. He was one of my first actors who knew
martial arts on an exceptional level. He
and wife Radha Sundari (whom I harnessed also for her ballet skills) now have
five boys. The oldest, Shukadev, is
eighteen, and he often plays leading male roles. Next in line is his younger brother, Sanatana,
and then still younger Gambhira. They are both involved. The kids of the original cast have “come of
age” and I’m happy as this unfolds.
That’s the change I see.
May the Source be with you!
5 km
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