Sri Swami Premananda with the new spiritual head, Sri Swami Saanthalinga Adigall.
The Saiva Sithaandha Kazhagam, a revered institution within the South African Saivaite community, has entered a transformative phase with the appointment of Sri Swami Saanthalinga Adigall as its new spiritual head.
At just 28 years of age, Swami Saanthalinga takes over from his mentor, Sri Swami Premananda, who has guided the organisation for 37 years.
Swami Saanthalinga, a teacher by profession, said it was a “full circle” moment.
“As cliché as it sounds, this was not a choice but a calling. My association with the Kazhagam began in 2002 when, at just four years old, I attended services at the organisation's Newlands branch. I was initiated as a Swami at age 16 in 2014, before being appointed as deputy spiritual head in 2018.
