Born: May 06, 1938 – Passed away: August 16, 2021
As I pen my feelings about the loss of our dear Mother, Hansa Jivan, I feel the wave of OVERWHELM that has consumed me over the last few days. On the one hand, there is an overwhelming feeling of grief, loss and emptiness and on the other, I feel overwhelmed by the outpouring of love and support for our family.
The immense love and support that has come from all corners of the world is testament to our dear mother and all that she stood for: Righteousness, Kindness, Understanding, Acceptance and Service to all. This was the path she followed unwaveringly until the end.
Born on 06 May 1938, in Durban, she grew up in a prominent family that encouraged her progressive nature. She was a trailblazer in a time where women had limited opportunities, pursuing her studies in Sanskrit, and graduating with the highest honors. She was also one of the first licenced women drivers’ of her time.
She married our late father, Arvind Jivan, from the J.Gordhan Family, also a prominent family in Laudium/Marabastad and the Indian community.
Her married life was committed to caring for our family, and extended family which she did with so much love and dedication. Notwithstanding all her responsibilities, she always made the time to explore new ideas, hobbies and teachings that allowed her to keep her very sharp intellect continuously challenged.
Being naturally dedicated to serving others’, she played an active role in the community both in Laudium and the wider community. Always respected for her deep knowledge of our culture, religion and spiritual practices, she was often approached for her wisdom and guidance, which she imparted with much passion. Not too long ago, she was acknowledged at the launch of the “I am I book”, which includes a poem written by her. Showcasing yet another one of her many talents!
Her curiosity and hunger for knowledge led her to the spiritual path of Radha Soami, which she pursued with dedication and commitment for over 30 years. The teachings of this path kept her strongly anchored to the values she lived for.
Something that has always stood out about her was her ability to respect the norms of community practices, as well as cultural and religious traditions whilst maintaining her own independent thinking. A quality admired by many and certainly one to aspire to. Her kind, generous nature and winning smile have won over many hearts. She gave of her time, attention and love to anyone whom she met, irrespective of age, colour or creed and without any expectation. A rare combination not to be found very often.
Her legacy will live on forever, through her children, children-in-law, and her beloved grandkids to whom she meant the world. She has blessed us with love, passion, dedication and knowledge which will carry us through the trials and tribulations of our lives.
Her kindness and love has been imprinted in the hearts of so many.
Rest in peace Mummy!
Loved and Missed infinitely
Your children: Bina, Roopen, Baiju and Preeya
Your children-in -law: Sudhir, Sharmila, Dheven and Mayur
And your beloved grandchildren: Sanjana, Nimay, Sejal, Nikita, Kareena, Shreya, Shivani, Riya, Kareena and Kajal.
