Hindu Monastery of Africa gets new Swami; calls for unity

**The New Priest: Swami Brahamanand Saraswati Maharaj**

The Hindu Monastery of Africa has a new Swami. This follows the passing of the last Monk five years ago.

Swami Brahamanand Saraswati Maharaj was initiated over the weekend. The ceremony took place at the Tema Branch of the monastery.

Swami Vishnu Vallab Ananda Maharaj traveled from India for the initiation. He represented His Holiness Swami Ghananand Saraswati, who has passed away. The event also celebrated the 50th anniversary of the monastery's founding.

During his remarks, Swami Brahamanand emphasized unity among members. He urged everyone to work together as a family. He stressed the importance of continuing their guru's legacy.

“My message is simple,” he said. “There is disunity among us as a family.” He added that they must unite to ensure success for what their guru left them.

“I cannot do it alone,” he continued. “No leader can work alone.” He compared teamwork to how hands help each other.

**Appreciation**

Swami Brahamanand thanked Swami Vishnu Vallab Ananda and all guests present. He expressed gratitude for their love and support during the celebration.

“Brothers and Sisters, we had an opportunity to receive guidance from him,” he said. “His deep love has greatly helped our monastery.”

He encouraged everyone to learn from this experience and from those around them.

**Tolerance in Hinduism**

Anthony Manuel Boesi, spokesperson for the new priest, spoke about religious tolerance in Hinduism. He stated that everyone is welcome at their gatherings.

“Our worship is open to all,” he explained. “Even non-members can join us.”

He described their discussions as opportunities to ask questions freely, even if unrelated to current topics.

“The priest and elders will help clear any doubts with relevant examples,” he added.

**A Special Day**

Emmanuel Akuoko Frimpong, President of Tema Temple, called it a special occasion. He noted that certain rituals were performed recently that he had never witnessed before.

“It made me very happy,” he said about experiencing these unique rituals during the anniversary celebration.

**Public Perception of Hinduism**

Frimpong addressed public perceptions about Hinduism being misunderstood due to a lack of knowledge.

“When you seek information from reliable sources, you understand better,” he stated. “Hinduism is one of the most tolerant religions.”

He highlighted that Hindus form a majority in India today and have stood the test of time.

Frimpong praised Swami Brahamanand for dedicating his life to serve humanity through worshiping God without marrying or seeking personal gain.