Watch: Magazine Barracks YouTube video launched
Glimpse into history
Religious festivals played a major part in the lives of Magazine Barracks residents. Kavady was one of the most popular.
Image: Supplied
A HISTORIC YouTube video capturing the story of the people of Magazine Barracks has been launched.
The video takes viewers from the early history of the Barracks – including why and when it was formed – right to the period when Barracks residents were evicted to Chatsworth between 1964 and 1966.
Producer, Robbie Naidoo said he was hoping that it would become historical record.
Legendary Natal Indian Congress stalwart, George Singh, played an important part in defending Barracks residents during their many tribulations.
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“The script was thoroughly researched with detailed planning and execution. I have taken information from a number of experts and former residents, so we are 100% satisfied with its accuracy and detail. For young people who haven’t had the opportunity to find out where their family members came from, this is a quick peak into history. And for the older folk, well, it’s a bit of nostalgia.
"We deliberately kept it concise and tight because we know due to social media, that attention spans are not that great anymore. Despite this we are delighted with the outcome and look forward to the community supporting the project,” he said.
Naidoo added that the video highlighted problems the residents experienced, their fetivals and experiences and even specific events like the 1950 protests, which resulted in many workers losing their jobs and homes.
The workers at Magazine Barracks were the real heroes.
Image: Supplied
He said among the people consulted were members of the Magazine Barracks Remembrance Association and former International Olympic Committee member, Sam Ramsamy, who grew up in the Barracks.
“It did take a lot longer than we expected but we had to do this to ensure that the product was accurate and of a good quality. The beauty of YouTube is that the information becomes instantly accessible around the world. In fact, a friend from Chennai messaged me the day it premiered and said he had no idea that such a place existed and was amazed at the story.”
People can access the production by going to “Magazine Barracks Story” on the TESB Channel on YouTube.
Naidoo extended his gratitude to Les Moonsamy, Christy Pillay and Selvan and Kiru Naidoo, who had assisted in the sourcing of pictures and maps for the video.