‘Greatness can come from all of us’
I AM IMMENSELY pleased to give a message and pay tribute to Prince lshwar Ramlutchman Mabheka Zulu during the launch of his biography which was written by Professor Jabulani Maphalala.
I am delighted that this publication is finally completed. Prince lshwar Ramlutchman Mabheka Zulu, who is a philanthropist and humanitarian, has contributed tremendously to the lives of my people.
When we look back during the life of my father, His Majesty, King Zwelithini Goodwill kaBhekuZulu, one is reminded of the bond that existed between His Majesty and Mabheka Zulu.
History was made when Prince lshwar Ramlutchman Mabheka Zulu was adopted as a son by the late King Zwelithini Goodwill kaBhekuZulu. He was the first Indian to be adopted, be given the Zulu Royal Orders, become a full member of the Zulu Royal Regiments (Izinyosi) and given a name, Mabheka Zulu. This shows clearly the friendship that existed between both His Majesty and Mabheka.
I am reminded of the Diwali celebrations that were held at various palaces which fostered good relations amongst the Hindu community and the Zulus across South Africa.
This coming together (and) seeing communities having tolerance and accepting each other as a brother and sister – this is indeed the best demonstration of what the late king stood for, in all these years which is respect, acceptance and social cohesion. Mabheka assisted the king to achieve such acts in society for the betterment of humanity.
I pay tribute to Prince Ishwar Ramlutchman Mabheka Zulu who has contributed to the upliftment of my people for many decades to promote arts and culture, peace, building homes, schools, creating harmony, non-violence, unity in diversity, installation of the Sivananda Peace Pillars and erecting heritage monuments in South Africa.
The Sivananda Peace Pillars which were erected by Mabheka will serve as a reminder to future generations of the importance of service in the process of building human beings, communities, a province and ultimately a wonderful country such as ours. By this example today we are reminded that greatness comes from receiving and from giving, and greatness can come from all of us if we strive enough to (help) others achieve their own greatness.
In providing the infrastructure necessary for others to survive and prosper, Mabheka creates the space for others to move towards their own greatness.
I am most appreciative that I am part of a historic occasion to honour Prince Ishwar Ramlutchman Mabheka Zulu who in life is an outstanding citizen of our country. His greatness is personified in his humility, his great work demonstrated that service is one of the greatest honour human beings can pay to other human beings. This is evident when we see how Mabheka has served the Zulu Royal Family, the late King Zwelithini Goodwill kaBhekuZulu and the Zulu nation at large.
Mabheka has become part of our family and is continuing to change Iives of the underprivileged.
I am pleased to also acknowledge that Mabheka has also championed the art of taking yoga to my people. Through the Sivananda World Peace Foundation, yoga will bring about a change in the lives of my people and enable them to become focused and more especially create an awareness of health and wellness.
We congratulate Mabheka on this milestone during the launch of his biography and wish him all the very best as he continues with serving the people of South Africa and the world at large. Mabheka has indeed set a very high standard in creating the spirit of ubuntu and oneness amongst my people.