Merebank residents commemorate and celebrate arrival of Indian forefathers
Candle lights, music, song and dance with talks of history here and there were the order of the day at the event.
THIS year marks 161 years since the arrival of Indians in the country. Tuesday, November 16 was the anniversary of this milestone and the community of Merebank gathered on Badulla Drive on Sunday night, November 21 to celebrate.
One of the organisers and MC at the event, Pastor Victor Kupsamy their forefathers’ hopes for a better life was not without strife in the land they call home today.
The event was for every person of Indian descent, irrespective of religion to learn their history and reflect on this long journey. They lit candles in memory of those who came before them.
“They toiled this land and laid a solid foundation for us, which we today enjoy. We called on residents to bring candles to light them in memory of, the acknowledgement and recognition of our forefathers.
“This event was to remind our children of the brave decision our forefathers took so we could have a better life. We hope to make do this annually to keep this historical event alive for the generations to come,” he said.
The short but very informative programme included performances by guest speakers, singers and dancers.
In his address, ward 68 councillor, Aubrey Snyman applauded the Indian community for its achievement and contributions to the country.
“I admire that you have not forgotten where we come from. To commemorate 161 years tells me that if one does not forget where they come from, they will always remember where they are going,” he said.
Resident Rajith ‘Mac’ Ramraj said the phoenix-like rise of the Indian community made it a force to be reckoned with.
“When our forefathers arrived in the country, the very next day they were put to the cane fields. They were promised acres of land in return after a five-year tenure.
“People walked from Addington Beach to Tongaat to houses that were believed to be habitable but what they found were structures like rabbit hutches.
“They had no windows and had to bend to enter or exit those homes. They were meant for families of five or six. This is what we have gone through but we have won the race and I believe we have created a foundation for our future generations,” he said.
Coordinator of the South Durban Community Environmental Alliance, Desmond D’Sa said, “In this province, wherever you go, our people have made their mark there and you can see it – whether it was by farming, the big shopping malls or even factories.
“Our people were not afraid to work and earn pittances. In those days, if you worked for 30 years you would earn R30. How many people would work for that today? Our forefathers did that and built this country up.
“So if one wants to build a country, they must take a leaf out of our forefathers to learn more about their resilience and how they stood up.”
