Rudram 11 - KZN September 2025

Our greatest ability is not to change the world but to change ourselves. These were profound words by Mahatma Gandhi and are so aligned to the work being done by Vedas4all through our monthly Rudram 11.

Given that September was Heritage Month, hosting the Rudram 11 at the Mahatma Gandhi House at the Phoenix Settlement in Inanda was most appropriate.

A 24-year old Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi arrived in South Africa in 1893 as a newly qualified lawyer. He lived in the country for 21 years, during which time he developed his philosophy of satyagraha, a form of non-violent civil resistance, to the political injustices he saw and experienced. It is said that a young lawyer was turned into a Mahatma in South Africa and was then returned to India.

As the chanters and keen listeners travelled into Inanda, we were reminded of the rich heritage and of our cultural diversity. The 11 rounds of chanting of the Rudram was powerful in a room filled with photographs of that history. After the chanting ended, the entire congregation sat in silence to allow the spiritual vibrations to spread into the surrounding community and beyond.

With another powerful Rudram 11 completed, we all left a different person from when we arrived. As we reflect on the words "be the change you want to see in the world," we know that we are creating positive change and are inspiring others to join us on this beautiful journey.