Today marked a very important day in history for the South African Hindu community as the Shri Vishnu Temple Society in Chatsworth, Durban unveiled the largest Hanuman murti (statue) on the African continent! The sounds of bhajans (hindu devotional songs) graced the airwaves as the streets of Chatsworth buzzed with not only Hanuman devotees but people of all races and religions who flocked to witness this glorious spectacle.

The gigantic Lord Hanuman monument is the temple’s contribution to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the arrival of indentured Indians in South Africa. Hence it is a symbol of power and strength not only for Hindu’s but for all Indians. Hanumanji is the loyal devotee and servant of Sri Rama in the Epic Hindu scripture, The Ramayana. Hanumanji gathered together his army of soldiers and helped Sri Rama fight the battle between Rama and the demon king, Ravana who captured Rama’s wife, Sita during their years of exile in the forest.

The R1.35 million intricately and colourfully designed structure which stands 13m tall was sculpted by Ottawa resident Umash Harripersadh. The project was coordinated by the society’s president, Lalmun Chebnath (LC) Maharaj.

Lord Hanuman is said to be the embodiment of strength, righteousness and devotion. As the Hanuman Chalisa states “Jai Jai Jai Hanuman gosai kripa karahu gurudev ki nai” which is translated as “Victory, victory, victory to You O Hanumanji, as our supreme Guru gives us grace.”