Last rites performed for Cove and John Ashram swami

Last rites: Swami Vidyanandaji Maharaj, spiritual director of the Cove and John Ashram and the America Sevashram Sangha was cremated yesterday at a ceremony which saw a large gathering at the East Coast institution. The Swami died last week in the United States and his body was returned to Guyana. In this photo final respects are being paid by the many who attended. (Dhanash Ramroop photo)
Last rites: Swami Vidyanandaji Maharaj, spiritual director of the Cove and John Ashram and the America Sevashram Sangha was cremated yesterday at a ceremony which saw a large gathering at the East Coast institution. The Swami died last week in the United States and his body was returned to Guyana. In this photo final respects are being paid by the many who attended. (Dhanash Ramroop photo)

Swami Vidyanandaji Maharaj was remembered yesterday as a holy man who influenced everyone who he came in contact with positively, as hundreds flocked the Cove and John Ashram to pay their last respects.

The crowd of devotees, schoolchildren, dignitaries, and others sat on the lawns of the Ashram as they recollected the swami’s contributions and influence towards society.

Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo hailed him as “someone who in many ways has influenced all our lives” and recalled his first meeting with the Swami. He said that while he was a bit troubled back then, the meeting influenced him in such a positive way that he felt resolved and was motivated to push further and harder to achieve his goals.

Minister of Education Dr Rupert Roopnaraine lauded the Swami for his influence in the education sector and said that he hopes that all of the schools around the country can emulate the Hindu College at Cove and John.

Former President Donald Ramotar, former Prime Minister Sam Hinds and Indian High Commissioner V. Mahalingam also took to the podium.

After the tributes the air was filled with chanting of mantras as the crowd lined up to pay their last respects.

The Swami’s remains were then cremated in front of the crowd of mourners.   The Swami, 79, died in the US last week and his body was returned to Guyana.