Prayer services as prescribed by His Holiness Guruswamigal were held by devotees since 2008 at the HA Jack School in Highlands North, Johannesburg. The Saiva Sithantha Sungum Johannesburg North Branch was established under the leadership of Swami Sivayogananda. After successfully completing its mandatory probation period in 2011, the branch obtained official branch status in 2012.

Years at HA Jack School (Highlands North/Melrose) 

For 11 years, Sunday services were convened at HA Jack School in Highlands North. During this period, the branch twice welcomed Swami Sivayogananda and Amma Sarasvathi, and also many visiting devotees.  Attendance at the school averaged around 15 devotees, yet services continued unwaveringly every Sunday—through rain and sunshine—supported by a dedicated group of sincere and humble worshippers.
Though small, the branch was active and vibrant, regularly observing: All major Thamil festivals, Guru Poojai, Community and charity projects, Velvi, preservation of Thamil and scripture music. During the branch’s final 2 years at HA Jack School, the monthly rental was generously donated by devotee Verlan Moodley. This also provided an opportunity for the branch to progress financially for its needs. The branch’s financial operations have always been supported by the generosity of the devotees, whether through cash contributions or in-kind donations.

Transition to New Venues 

During our times at HA Jack School, the branch enjoyed a pleasant relationship with the school principle and caretaker. After a very long and spiritually successful stay at HA Jack School, circumstances required the branch to seek alternative venues. Swami Sivayogananda informed Guru that a premises had been sourced in Rivonia by Sungum youth and requested her to gather the old devotees. Services re-opened on 22 November 2022, creating a well-attended and spiritually uplifting atmosphere. Unfortunately, after the re-opening, only one service could be held due to unforeseen circumstances. The branch once again needed to relocate and two more venues were sourced and available: A private school in Paulshof and a premises in Boskruin, Randburg.

Establishment in Boskruin (2023 – Present) 

On 5 March 2023, the Johannesburg North Branch commenced services at its new venue in Boskruin, Randburg. This premises is kindly provided free of charge by devotee Mrs Kathy Ramsewak & family, for which the branch remains deeply grateful.
With the support of longstanding devotees from the HA Jack school years, devotees from other Sungum branches, and members of various organisations, the branch has grown steadily in attendance. It now hosts a strong and active youth and children’s structure, personally guided by the branch Gurus. After Sunday services, for those interested, additional activities continue until 10:30am. Every event and festival is celebrated with vibrant joy and heartfelt enthusiasm, as devotees dedicate countless time towards it. Each festival event is crafted with careful thought and meticulous planning. The branch remains committed to the teachings of His Holiness Guruswamigal and to actively observing: All Thamil religious festivals, Guru Poojai, Charity and community outreach initiatives, preservation of language, scripture, dance and music. Throughout the year, devotees from other branches and institutes are attracted to visiting the branch.  

Focus on Youth and Future Generations 

The Johannesburg North Branch places great emphasis on creating a joyful, nurturing, and spiritually uplifting environment for children and youth. The focus is on developing:
Good character, Humility and freedom from ego, Love, service, values aligned with scriptures and habits that contribute to a better humanity. Youth are exposed to scriptures such as Aathi Soodhi and Thirukural. Children and youth participate in activities throughout the year, making the branch one of the most vibrant and active youth-focused branches in the Sungum as well as community.

Spiritual Leadership 

Since its inception at HA Jack School, the branch has been under the dedicated spiritual leadership of Guru Vivekanandan and his wife, who is the granddaughter of Woomapathi Sivam (an ardent and loyal disciple of Guruswamigal who subsequently donated 37 Derby St to his Guru, Guruswamigal) and also is the daughter of Swami Sivanantha Navalar, a direct disciple and personal assistant to Guruswamigal, who also served as Spiritual Head of the Saiva Sithantha Sungum. 
Together, their expertise and service have shaped the branch’s identity and strengthened its foundation. They have been deeply committed to the teachings of Guruswamigal and saiva samayam and to preserving traditions and culture selflessly. Guru Vivekanandan previously served as Deputy Guru of the Newlands Branch (2001–2003) and is the eldest grandson of the late Swami Saanthalinganantha, a direct disciple of Guruswamigal.