Shirdi Sai Baba, a spiritual master and saint, gave the world the keys of happiness – Shraddha (faith) and Saburi (patience). The presence of Shirdi Sai Baba at the MCB infused waves of divine energies and positivity which attracted people from all walks of life to visit the temple. Children in Nonoti have already started to visit the temple and pray there even in their native languages. Shirdi Sai Baba stood for love, unity, stability, and compassion beyond barriers – values which are much-needed in these current times.

Maharaj conducted the ceremony with expert precision, clarity, and sanctity; and also explained the significance of the various prayers performed. Mohanji explained that being in the presence of such an event was extremely rare, rarer than once in a lifetime. Despite setbacks endured due to the tragic storms and flooding in the area, the faith, conviction, and commitment of the organising teams saw this event reach completion and success. CEO of Mohanji Foundation, Madhusudan Rajagopalan, along with chairperson of MFSA, Deloshni Govender, Swami Mohana-Bhakantanda, Dr. Keshnie Pillay, Mrs. Suloch Pillay, Mr. Raju Duggal, Mr. Lee Subraylu, and many other team members worked tirelessly to make this event a reality.

The event was graced by several dignitaries, including the honorable Narend Singh (member of Parliament, Chief Whip IFP), Prince Ishwar Ramlutchman Mabheka Zulu (chairperson of the International Parliament and President of KZN Inter-Religious Business Association), Deputy Mayor Councillor Dolly Govender (speaker for KwaDukuza), MEC Ravi Pillay (MEC for Economic Development, Tourism, and Environmental Affairs KZN) sent a heartfelt note of support and best wishes. The A. Gandhi (granddaughter of Mahatma Gandhi), Mrs. Brenda Kala (founder of DALA), and Ms. Cressida Elias (Gift of the Givers) sent messages of support. Mr. Roy Naidu (Timber Rooftech), Dr. Jesvern Reddy (Bukati Marofu), Pundit Suresh Singh, Mr. Roy Ramdaw (Roy Ramdaw and Associates), Mr. Kashik Mohanlal (GR Cabins), Mrs. Ayesha Sooliman (Gift of the Givers), Dr. Lorna Madurai (virologist), and Mr. Yogin Deyan (Director of Meropa Communications) to mention a few names, also gave their support.

Mohanji was honoured by Shri Sulakhe Maharaj with a special shawl from Shirdi. Dignitaries, well-wishers, and volunteers who contributed to the project in their own way and capacity were also honoured with special gifts brought from Shirdi. The Mohanji Foundation honoured Shri Sulakhe Maharaj for his constant support and advice, without whom, this event would not have been possible.

In honour of Mohanji, two books were launched and presented to Mohanji and Shri Sulakhe Maharaj: “Gems from the Master”, authored by Maheshwari Mohanji as well as translation and commentary on the sacred “Sri Guru Gita” written by Lakshmi Mohananda (vice-chairperson of MFSA). These books are available for sale of which the proceeds will be given towards the Shirdi Sai Baba temple at the MCB in Nonoti.

Shri Sulakhe Maharaj thereafter led the bhumi puja, which is a sacred consecration of the land. Mohanji and Maharaj planted three sacred trees – audumbar or cluster fig to be the home of Lord Dattatreya, a neem tree that will eventually grow into a Gurusthan (a space honouring the Guru), and a bilva tree which is auspicious to Lord Shiva. The programme concluded with vegan meals for all participants. Concurrently, approximately 200 vegan meals, food hampers, and health packs for locals were distributed at the Nonoti Primary School.

The Shirdi Sai Baba temple at the MCB in Nonoti is open to the public to visit and participate in daily worship of Shirdi Sai Baba. All are welcome. Kindly contact Selvan Naidoo on 063-208-7204 or more information on visiting the temple