From kadai to kuduva: celebrating our heritage
1860 legacy
THE 1860 Heritage Centre brings South Africa's Indian cultural history to life as community members proudly display traditional household implements used by their ancestors. From the kadai cooking vessel to the paraffin lantern and kuduva, these everyday objects tell the rich story of Indian heritage and resilience in South Africa. From left, Dolly Naidoo, Radha Kistnasamy, Tees Pandaram, and Saras Busarello
Image: DOCTOR NCGOBO
FOOD has an unparalleled ability to evoke memories and forge connections, weaving a tapestry of history, culture, and community that brings us together.
On Saturday, the 1860 Heritage Centre and the POST, welcomes all to a culinary experience at this year’s Heritage Food Festival from 10am.
It promises a delicious exploration of authentic Indian South African cuisine.
The festival will feature a myriad of vendors offering an array of dishes: the signature mutton curry, the ever-popular dhall, street-style treats like samoosas and puri patha, alongside sweet delicacies such as jalebi, gulab jamun, and soji. Attendees can also enjoy cups of masala tea or coffee.
In addition, the festival will also host live cooking demonstrations led by culinary experts Thigam Nathoo and Uthika Naidu of Braised by Uthika fame, offering an opportunity for guests to glean insight into the techniques behind these dishes.
Three guided tours will take visitors through the 1860 Heritage Centre itself, showcasing the rich history and invaluable contributions of Indian South Africans to our national heritage.
There will be live music by Risa Raeanne and radio personality Zakia Ahmed Siddiqi will serve as the event's MC.
An entrance fee of R30 will be charged, with all proceeds directed towards the heritage centre’s initiatives. Additionally, attendees can enter a raffle for R50, offering the chance to win exciting prizes.
"The heritage centre stands as a proud guardian of the stories, struggles, and triumphs of South Africans. Rooted in our history yet embracing the diversity of our nation, we showcase how food, culture, and tradition bring people together. Through events like the Heritage Food Festival, we aim to preserve and celebrate our shared past while building a future of unity and respect for diversity," said Selvan Naidoo the director of the 1860 Heritage Centre.