His Holiness Kadamba Kanana Swami has been a beloved spiritual master visiting ISKCON South Africa for over three decades. He dedicated his life to nurturing his disciples, most of whom developed a relationship with him as youngsters. Some came from vulnerable communities, searching for a deeper meaning in life which he helped them mould by taking up the practice of bhakti yoga, vegetarianism and freely giving up all forms of intoxication for a life of spirituality.
He inaugurated the Soweto Festival of Song and Dance in 2007 and is renowned for joyfully dancing in ecstatic kirtanas in the streets of Soweto and other towns where the ratha yatra festival is held in South Africa.
His melodious voice reverberates forever in our hearts and we all have many memories of being a part of those moments when he led the congregational chanting of the Hare Krishna maha mantra etched in our minds forever.
The Soweto festival now takes place annually and is a fusion of art and culture, with an aim to unite people from diverse backgrounds in spirituality. Soweto became the first township in South Africa to host the international Ratha Yatra festival.
To his followers and disciples he is a loving father, mentor, friend and source of strength and wisdom. The depth of his realizations and knowledge of the Vedic literatures have drawn hundreds to him to learn to gain an understanding of Krsna Conscious philosophy and more importantly, how to apply the principles practically in everyday life.
Maharaja’s charisma, sense of humour and expert classes, particularly on the pastimes described in the Caitanya Caritamrta, always give us a rare glimpse into the spiritual world.
His exemplary life has had an extraordinary impact on a generation of South Africans who now channel their talents and creative energy towards sharing what they have learnt from him with others.
We are sincerely grateful and forever indebted to him for his selfless service.
In June 2022, HH Kadamba Kanana Swami announced that he was at an advanced stage of cancer and that his lifespan was very limited. He is currently under the shelter of Sri Vrindavana Dham in the care of his spiritual master, His Holiness Jayadvaita Swami.
We offer our heartfelt prayers to Lord Nrsmhadeva to extend his loving embrace and protection over him, and his disciples during this difficult time.