Local philanthropist honours leaders
MONUMENTS in honour of Nelson Mandela and His Majesty King Goodwill Zwelithini KaBhekuZulu were erected in Mitchell Park in Durban in November as part of the heritage day celebrations.
This was an initiative of philanthropist, humanitarian and businessman Ishwar Ramlutchman Mabheka Zulu under the Sivananda Peace Pillar Foundation, and the first ever bronze busts of Mandela and King Goodwill to be installed in a public place, highlighting their contribution towards peace and stability in South Africa.
Associated with the Zulu monarch and the Zulu nation for two decades, Ramlutchman said he was touched by the simplicity and the contributions of the two great men to society and commissioned these monuments in their honour.
‘These monuments will serve as a symbol of reconciliation, tolerance and will also highlight the heritage of the pioneers, the courage and commitment of the freedom fighters, the wisdom, passion and determination of these visionaries of a non -racial and a democratic South Africa.’
Unity
King Goodwill was delighted with the bust of himself.
‘Last year marked the 200th year of the founding of the Zulu nation by King Shaka and 46 years of my reign as the monarch. It is therefore a fitting tribute to the Zulu nation.
‘We salute him for having the vision to serve mankind in all spheres of life, especially my people of KZN.
‘The Sivananda Peace Pillars are beacons of unity in diversity and a source of inspiration, a reminder that peace and love should transcend our human limitations.
‘His Holiness the Dalai Lama of Tibet praised Ramlutchman for this noble initiative and gave his unconditional support for the project.
‘Ramlutchman made a commitment to the late Swami Sahajananda to undertake the installation of at least eight Sivananda Peace Pillars across South Africa, but has gone on to surpass the figure promised.’
In KZN, Peace Pillars have already been unveiled in Tongaat, Empangeni, Ulundi, Gingindlovu, Clare Estate, Mount Edgcombe, Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park, Phoenix, eSikhaleni, Ladysmith, Pietermaritzburg, Durban, Greytown and eShowe.
This historic monument is supported by the provincial heritage agency AMAFA.
Plaques of the following will also be installed as part of the monument:
• History of the Indian indentured labourers
• History of the first Coloureds
• History of the Boers/Afrikaners
• The preamble of the Constitution
• Life and times of His Majesty, King Goodwill Zwelithini Ka-BhekuZulu
• Life and times of former President Nelson Rohihlahla Mandela.