Historic Tongaat temple embarks on a journey of renewal
Uniting following the floods
Tongaat Hindu Samarasa Association, known as the Tongaat Sabha.
Image: Supplied
The historic Tongaat Hindu Samarasa Association, affectionately known as the Tongaat Sabha, is embarking on a journey of renewal following floods that challenged its very existence.
Founded in September 1912, this 113-year-old temple has not only been a spiritual home for many but also a pillar for the broader Tongaat community. However, the impact of the floods has led to the need for financial and community support to uphold its legacy.
Soobrie Govender, 66, the temple's chairperson for the past 17 years, said: “We are situated in a low-lying area on High Street. Following the storms, sponsors assisted with painting projects and providing free labour. However, the carpets and storeroom furniture were destroyed, and the property requires regular maintenance.
"But our devotees are mostly pensioners, so we don't get much financial support. We have, however, still endeavoured to replace the carpet with tiles. These are easier and cheaper to clean up after a flood. We need community support."
The process of the renewal of the Tongaat Hindu Samarasa Association, known as the Tongaat Sabha.
Image: Supplied
He added: "Our forebears unselfishly donated the land and funded the building for this wonderful temple for the benefit of the community. We are, therefore, striving to ensure the upkeep of the temple to keep our rich cultural heritage alive. We want to pass on this timeless value, our temple, to the younger generation."
Govender said they also required artists to paint the deities (statues).
"The objective of the organisation is to work in the interest of the broader community in matters pertaining to their social welfare, spiritual education and religion. Over the years, the sabha was a popular venue for cultural activities, weddings, eisteddfods and ceremonies.
“We host satsangs three times a week with about 100 devotees. As a Shiva temple, Maha Shivaratri is our highlight with about 300 devotees attending. A karate and judo institute has used this venue for its zen meditation classes, and it was used as an exam venue by Unisa.
If you would like to assist the temple, call Soobrie Govender on 083 788 8485.