Author captures journey of South Africa’s indentured labourers through descendants

DRIVEN by a profound commitment to enriching South African history, Durban author Dr Kogielam Archary shared the journey of eight indentured labourer descendants and their families in her latest book. 

The 180-page historical book, Reflective Memories - Voices of Indentured Labourer Descendants - South Africans born between 1935 and 1955, Volume Two, was recently launched at the Girmit Centre in Verulam.  

Archary, 60, of Glen Anil, said she saw a need to capture stories, reflective memories and personal testimonies from South African Indian persons born before 1955.

“As an oral historian, I saw that a gap exists to change the narrative regarding South African history, Indian diasporic history and local history.”

Archary, a research associate at the University of South Africa, said the book comprised interviews with eight individuals who reflected on the lives of their grandparents and parents, who either came from India or were colonial-born, as well their personal journeys.  

“These eight descendants of Indian indentured labourers shared their personal testimonies and reflective memories from the last seven decades or more. I was able to gain insight on some of their great grandparents' experiences. 

“Furthermore, many individuals born before 1955 hold deep in their hearts and in the recesses of their mind many truths about what happened in the past. They are the custodians of culture, value and tradition. They are also the witnesses to struggle, sacrifice and success. Hearing them speak, telling their stories and sharing their reflective memories inspired me to write this book." 

Archary, who has a PhD in oral literacy, said through the reflective memories and voices of the trailblazers, readers would move from the 1860s to the late 1900s. 

“It was during this period where the most amount of change occurred. The eight trailblazers are eyewitnesses to events and happenings. Their realities and lived experiences contribute different viewpoints and unique perspectives that fill in the gaps in documented history. 

“I believe it is important to capture histories and their voices as sometimes they are able to correct the written record. They are able to add to the histories that are already recorded or they may share new information. However, the reader will also find themselves in touch with recent happenings that the descendants are currently occupied with.”

The mother of three said she would work on volume three of the book series.

 Last year, she launched Reflective Memories - Voices of Indentured Labourer Descendants - South Africans born between 1924 and 1944, Volume One. 

“I will be conducting more interviews with septuagenarians, octogenarians and nonagenarians early this year, which will be consolidated into volume three. In addition, the book will be launched to coincide with the 50th anniversary of the August 1956 Women’s March to the Union Buildings. Over 20 000 women from all backgrounds and around the country marched to petition against the extension of ‘pass laws’ which forced black South Africans to carry internal passports. Indian women were among those who participated in the march,” she said. 

For more information or to purchase a copy of the book, WhatsApp 072 856 1988.

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