Ricky and Shamala Naidoo.
Image: Screenshot
Businessman Ricky Naidoo received the prestigious Ammen Award by the Shri Mariammen Temple on Friday, recognising his unwavering commitment to socio-economic upliftment and disaster relief efforts in Tongaat and surrounding areas.
In a heartfelt moment during the ceremony, Naidoo’s wife, Shamala Naidoo, pledged an unplanned donation of R250,000 to the temple, inspired by the evening’s proceedings.
Naidoo has become well-known for his hands-on response to multiple crises, including the 2021 unrest, the devastating 2022 floods, and the 2024 tornado.
In addition to emergency relief, he has consistently supported communities facing ongoing water shortages, supplying water daily to Tongaat and nearby areas.
The award ceremony highlighted his continued dedication to improving lives under challenging circumstances, particularly his efforts to ensure access to basic necessities such as clean water.
Naidoo said the donation was a spontaneous decision.
“We actually did not go to the ceremony thinking we were going to donate money. We decided at that moment. The money will go towards renovations and resolving some of the remaining issues."
Ricky Naidoo's Ammen Award.
Image: supplied
He emphasised the temple's historical and cultural importance, describing it as one of the oldest in the area and a key institution preserving heritage.
“The temple is old and one of the oldest temples there is around. We also like giving to other temples. Since many temples have approached us, we decided to donate because the Shri Mariammen Temple is big on tradition. It is a landmark for the indentured labourers and they keep the culture going. They are the only temple that continues to do functions for our culture.”
Naidoo added that the donation was entirely his wife’s initiative.
“It was actually my wife who gave the money. She decided while she was listening to all the speeches. I actually stood there not knowing how much my wife, Shamala, would give, and she ended up giving R250,000. We are more than happy to do so and we hope the money helps the temple,” he said.
The Ammen Award celebrates individuals who demonstrate exceptional service to the community.