Exploring the legacy of Indian indentured labourers: conference and tour in August
As a precursor, a fund-raising Autumn Dinner and Dance will be held on May 31 at the Verulam Day and Frail Care Centre
The first Indian indentured labourers arrive in Durban harbour aboard the Truro in 1860.
Image: File
THE 1860 Indentured Labourers Foundation Verulam will host an Indentured History Conference and Tour in August to commemorate the 165th anniversary of the arrival of Indian indentured labourers to Natal. The event, scheduled to be held in Umhlanga, will also reflect on the journey of indentured labourers to the 6th Industrial Revolution.
As a precursor, a fund-raising Autumn Dinner and Dance will be held on May 31 at the Verulam Day and Frail Care Centre.
JS Singh, the president of the 1860 Indentured Labourers Foundation Verulam, said the conference would bring together international delegates, historians, academics, community leaders, cultural advocates, descendants and community members.
"It will feature engaging panel discussions, insightful presentations, and performances that celebrate the legacy of Indian indentured labourers, fostering a greater understanding and appreciation of their impact.
"We have had a favourable response to our call for papers. Over time, many descendants of the 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," said Singh.
"Together, they built enduring institutions – temples, mosques and cultural centres that continue to support and celebrate a vibrant Indian heritage."
The tour has been curated to include places of historical, religious, social and cultural importance in KwaZulu-Natal. Visitors to the tour will explore the vibrant Victoria Street Market, places of worship and historical landmarks.
"Hop on the bus as we head to Stanger, Tongaat, Verulam, Phoenix, Chatsworth, Port Shepstone, Pietermaritzburg, Durban, and many more towns of interest. Our international guests will get to enjoy a 'bunny chow', a local movie night, and partake in a braai."
He will work alongside Dr Kogielam Archary, the chairperson of the 1860 Indian Arrival to Natal LOC; and Dr Kumar Mahabir and Shalima Mohamed, the executive directors of the Indo-Caribbean Cultural Centre, Trinidad and Tobago.
The conference will be held at the Alpvest Institute in Umhlanga from August 3 to 5; followed by the tour from August 6 to 12.
For further details, email Hazel Latchman at [email protected].