1860 Press Realese.
PRESS RELEASE 16th NOVEMBER 2024 Commemorating the 164th Anniversary of the Arrival of Indian Indentured Labourer’s to KwaZulu Natal , South Africa Commemorating the 164th Anniversary of the Arrival of Indian Indentured Labourers to KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa 1860-2024 DURBAN:
The Sivananda World Peace Foundation, in partnership with the KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government, GOPIO International, and The Post newspaper, will commemorate the 164th anniversary of the arrival of Indian indentured labourers in South Africa. The event will take place at the Bayview Ubuntu Centre, 263 Summerfield Road, Bayview, Chatsworth, at 6:30 pm.
The Honourable Premier of KwaZulu-Natal, Thami Ntuli, will serve as the Chief Guest of Honour, joined by His Worship, the Mayor of eThekwini Municipality, Councillor Cyril Xaba. This commemoration marks a significant milestone in KwaZulu-Natal's journey toward peace and unity.
It reminds us of the collective responsibility to build a better South Africa, where peace is central to our nation's growth and prosperity. The arrival of the first indentured labourers from India began with the SS Truro, which landed in Durban Bay on 16 November 1860, carrying 345 men, women, and children from Madras. This was soon followed by the SS Belvedere on 25 November 1860.
Within six months, the Indian population in South Africa reached 1,029, with additional voyages bringing thousands more. Over the next 51 years, more than 200,000 Indians arrived in South Africa, including over 152,000 indentured labourers transported on 384 ships, establishing one of the largest Indian communities outside India. Initially bound to sugar plantations under harsh colonial conditions, the Indian community contributed to the economic and cultural fabric of the region.
Over time, many descendants of these early immigrants overcame immense challenges to excel across various fields, enriching South Africa’s diverse society. The community also grew with the arrival of "passenger Indians" who financed their journeys and brought skills in trade, teaching, and craftsmanship. Together, they built enduring institutions—temples, mosques, and cultural centers—that continue to support and celebrate a vibrant Indian heritage. On this day, South Africa’s Indian community commemorates the resilience, contributions, and cultural legacy of those first indentured labourers who arrived 164 years ago. Their journey and enduring influence remain an essential part of South Africa’s multicultural history.
Quote: "Our province is also at the crossroads of change, and in promoting social cohesion in a divided society, racial groups depend on each other. The history of the Zulu nation is intertwined with the histories of Indian, English, Afrikaner, and German communities. -"His Majesty King Goodwill Zwelithini kaBhekazulu kaSolomon (27 July 1948 – 12 March 2021) For more information, please contact:
Email: sivanandaworldpeace@gmail.com
Phone: 083 357 8747 Regards,
Ishwar Ramlutchman