Durban - Dr Isri Bedassi, the driving force behind the monument honouring the arrival of the Indian indentured labourers in South Africa, which was unveiled in the uMngeni Local Municipality at the weekend, has described it as a fulfilling achievement.
The monument was unveiled at the Howick museum in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands this past weekend.
“To see the fruition of my envisaged monument to honour the Indian indentured men and women who laid the foundation for our future and that of generations to come has been very fulfilling,” stated Bedassi, who is chairperson of the 1860 Legacy Foundation.
He said the monument aimed to remind people to consider the legacy they leave behind, emphasising the importance of creating lasting memories and showing appreciation for the time we share with others.
“From our parents and loved ones to friends and strangers, each person we meet plays a unique role in shaping our path. The monument encourages us to recognise the importance of the connections and the impact they have on our lives. It inspires us to live with love, kindness, and gratitude, making the most of every relationship,” he said.
Speaking on the journey which led to the building of the monument, Bedassi said: “In the quest of tracing my great grandfather’s and mother’s details, being the fourth generation in the family, I decided to capture the details of all the Indian indentured labourers in the Midlands of Natal between the towns of Boston and Mooi River. At the outset, I did not expect nor realise the daunting task that lay before me. It was like looking for a needle in a haystack.
He said he began his work in January 2020 and completed the task in May 2021.
“The journey has been enriching and fruitful, culminating in the unveiling of the monument by the Consul General of India, Dr. Thelma John David, on Saturday. This year marks the 165th anniversary of the arrival of our forefathers and mothers as Indian indentured labourers to work in the sugar cane fields, railways, coal mines, hospitals, hotels, municipalities, and as market gardeners, among others,” said Bedassi.