As September 17 approaches, Hindus will prepare to start their annual month-long Purtassi fast.
According to the resident priest of the Greenwood Park Shree Ranganathar Temple, Guru Mahesan, Purtassi is dedicated to the worship of Shree Ranganathar while manifesting in the avatar of Lord Venketeswara.
“He is the Lord of the sacred seven hills of Thirumalai, commonly known as Thirupathi. In South Africa during this month devotees observe a strict fast, abstaining from all pleasures. They seek the Lord’s benevolence in reducing their karmas. Ahimsa (harmlessness) is observed, the seeker follows a spiritual path without any intention of harm to all beings at every level of his personality.
“Fasting trains the seeker to prevent the loss of energy and by doing so, the seeker will be able to conserve energy to reach higher ideals in life. The seeker, with devotion, surrenders his ignorance to Lord Venkateshwara who represents the one’s self,” said Mahesan.
As per the South African Hindu Maha Sabha, every Saturday in this month are treated as holy days. Devotees gather in large numbers at Lord Vishnu temples, and special prayers are offered, however, devotees also pray in their homes.
In celebration of the fasting, the Greenwood Park Shree Ranganathar Temple will commemorate their 121-year Purtassi Festival. The festival will commence on September 17 with the traditional flag hoisting ceremony and prayers will continue over four consecutive Saturdays, each featuring special Kalsam prayer, havan, and abishegam for Shree Ranganathar. The conclusion of the fasting will take place on October 17, with the flag de-hoisting ceremony.
Ashlin Ellan, secretary of the temple said the 121st Purtassi festival will feature several unique rituals and ceremonies.
“These include the Kalsam Prayer, Havan, and Abishegam for Shree Ranganathar on four consecutive Saturdays, and the sacred Arathanai, followed by the Garuda Seva whereby Shree Krishna on the Garuda Chariot will be ceremoniously carried around the temple, accompanied by the Namo lamp and Hari Bhajans will be sung in praise of Shree Ranganathar.
“The festival will also conclude with a special Shree Hanuman Yaagum and Raam Bhajana, creating a spiritually uplifting experience. Each ceremony is designed to bring blessings, peace, and spiritual growth to all who attend,” said Ellan.
He said the Greenwood Park Shree Ranganathar Temple has served as a spiritual beacon for the community as the 121st year marks a significant milestone in the temple's long-standing history, symbolising over a century of spiritual dedication.
“Established by early settlers in 1903 who sought to preserve and continue their cultural and religious practices, the temple has been a place for devotees to gather for worship, community engagement, and the celebration of various Hindu festivals.
“This year is more special as it not only commemorates the enduring legacy of the temple but also emphasises the unity and devotion of the community that has supported it for generations,” said Ellan.
