Zikalala celebrates 160th anniversary of Indentured Indians
South Africa, today, marks 160 years since the arrival of the first Indian indentured labourers in Durban.
KZN Premier Sihle Zikalala's been speaking at the Sri Mariamman Temple in Mount Edgecombe, ahead of today's anniversary, marked by the arrival of the first group of people from India on the SS Truro.
"Rise in salute to the indentured workers. The first ship in our shores from India on the 16 November 1860. We all now observe the sacrifice and struggle of those 152 000 women, men and children.
"They spent 1.5 million proud South Africans of Indian heritage."
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Mkhize says historically, indentured labourers struggled against discrimination, poverty and a lack of education. Selvan Naidoo is the curator of the 1860 Heritage Centre. He says it's a special day that needs more recognition.
"This history is poorly documented. 26 years into our democracy, this narrative makes up one of many stories of our South African history that ought to be documented on a much broader level. I think it is a proud moment of remembering, reflecting and restoring."
