Mombasa: Mombasa, the coastal city and gateway to East Africa, will host Morari Bapu's Ram Katha from 9 August 9 to 17. This will be Bapu’s fourth Katha in Mombasa, continuing a tradition that has long connected East African Indians with their spiritual and cultural roots.
The Katha is being hosted by Aroon Gokaldas Samani and his UK family led by Councillor Abhishek Sachdev. Fondly known as Mama, Samani was born in Ranavav, Gujarat in 1934 and moved to Africa as a teenager. After qualifying as a civil engineer in the UK, he worked with the World Bank and Government in Uganda, contributing to vital infrastructure development across the region. A steadfast advocate of education and community welfare, Mama has led prominent institutions such as the Lohana Mahajan in Nairobi, remaining deeply rooted in his cultural and spiritual identity.
This Katha will take place in Nyali, on the north coast of Mombasa. Of special note is the Shiv Mandir, the city’s main and only Shiv Mandir, believed to be over 100 years old. This temple continues to be a cornerstone of the local Hindu community, serving as a sacred space for worship and cultural connection across generations.
Morari Bapu, who has delivered over 950 Kathas across India and around the globe is admired not just for his oratory, but for his inclusive spirit and deep compassion for all, especially society’s most marginalised. Though rooted in Hindu philosophy, Bapu’s timeless message of Satya (Truth), Prem (Love), and Karuna (Compassion) transcends boundaries and speaks to people of all faiths. He frequently draws upon teachings from Christianity, Sufism, and Buddhism in his discourses.
Organisers in Mombasa are finalising arrangements to welcome attendees from across the region and abroad.
