A life well lived: Dhropathy Singh turns 100
JOURNEY
Dhropathy Singh celebrated her 100th birthday on Sunday.
Image: Supplied
GREAT great-grandmother Dhropathy Singh, who celebrated her milestone 100th birthday on Sunday, attributed her longevity to having led a healthy lifestyle, which included staying clear of junk food and keeping active.
She celebrated the day with her loved ones who held a party at the Pesco Hall in Phoenix.
Singh said she lived in Mayville with her parents, Lutchman, who hailed from Mauritius, and Rajwanthie, who was from India, as well as her three siblings.
“We were three sisters and one brother. I have many fond memories growing up, especially with my parents and siblings. We did not have much but we lived comfortably. I enjoyed playing games and cooking with our mother. I am also grateful to still have one of my sisters, Chundervathee. She is 94 years old now.”
Singh, who lives in Phoenix, said at age 15 she married Ramluckan Singh. However, she became a widow at a young age after he passed away due to ill health in 1969.
They have seven children: Sarabjeeth Singh, 83; Chintha Deokali, 82; the late Premjeeth Singh, 80; the late Sitha Singh, 76; Shardha Harinarain, 72; Premnath Singh, 69; and Shirley Ramched, 65. Singh has 24 grandchildren, 42 great-grandchildren and 11 great-great-grandchildren.
She said at age 21 she worked as a domestic helper.
“My husband was quite ill and unable to work. I did this for quite some time. Later on, my sons who were quite young, started working at butcheries and fish markets to make ends meet.”
Among her earlier memories was having to flee their home during the 1949 Durban Riots.
“We had to find a way to survive during the riots. I hid with my children in the sugar cane field while looking for a shelter. Thankfully, a black family helped and gave us a place to stay. It was quite a frightening time.”
Singh, who does not have any ailments, attributed her longevity to leading a healthy lifestyle.
“I do not eat any junk food. My favorite food is dhal, rice and drumstick herbs. I also like to walk and do a bit of cleaning around the house to keep fit. I start and end my day with a prayer.”
Singh said she felt blessed and fortunate to reach 100.
“I am also thankful to my family for taking the best care of me so I was able to celebrate this milestone.”
Singh said nowadays she enjoyed watching soapies on TV and listening to bhajans.”