Appa John Kisten
Image: Supplied
THANK you, Kiru Naidoo, for honouring Appa John Kisten in your column so beautifully.
“Uncle John Kisten: a life of service and resilience in Chatsworth,” the POST, April 15 – 19, refers.
His life of service and resilience shaped so many of us, which we will never forget. The turnout at his funeral was one of the biggest Chatsworth had seen, showing just how deeply he was loved and respected.
This speaks volumes about the lives he has touched and a fitting tribute to our guru who gave his life to others. He dedicated his life to preserving cultural and religious traditions.
Through mentorship and his teaching, Appa ensured that this continued to thrive among the youth.
Chatsworth and the surrounding areas will feel the absence of Appa John Kisten for years to come. A man who gives his life in service never truly leaves us, he lives on in every person he helped, every cause he championed, and every young person he inspired to stand tall. The sea of people at his funeral, was just not a farewell, it was Chatsworth's collective thank you.
My appeal to the community of Chatsworth is that it is our responsibility to carry his legacy forward. Naming a street after Appa John Kisten would cement his legacy in Chatsworth.
It will be an idea to get MP Les Govender's support, to table a proposal with the municipality. This is very important to remind our children what resilience and selfless service look like.
Appa John Kisten's legacy is now our responsibility to carry forward. May his dedication to others inspire the next generation to serve with the same heart.
DHAYALAN MOODLEY
Mobeni Heights