HIS Holiness Sri Swami Ganapati Sachchidananda landed by helicopter at Quinam Beach, Siparia, yesterday morning where scores of devotees had gathered to pray for protection of the environment.

The India-born spiritual leader of the Dattatreya Yoga Centre, Carapichaima, walked into the ocean, scooped the salt-water into his palms and made offerings to the sun God, before joining devotees at the Havan Kund (altar) where the pooja (worship) was in session.

The prayers, which began at 7 a.m., brought to an end the 10-day Hanuman Heritage Festival which was held at the centre.

Swamiji, dressed in a saffron robe, unveiled a plaque to commemorate his visit to the area and hoisted a flag before leaving for Penal Rock Road, where another group of devotees awaited his arrival.

The Swami in his address urged devotees to "switch off" their cell phones and "become conscious of your environment, the birds and other creatures".

Speaking of hospitality as a form of worship, Swamiji said: "The way you greet and treat people reflects your inner peace and takes you closer to self-realisation."

He called for balance in life, urging devotees to "move slowly, centre yourself and do not allow yourself to have frequent mood shifts".

Some 300 devotees chanted religious songs throughout the function. Among those in attendance were officials of the Forestry Division, lifeguards and Tribhuwan Seegobin, former president of the Sanatan Dharma Maha Sabha (SDMS).