Documenting role of SA Indians in the military

THE South African Indian Legion

(Sail) has embarked on a project to research and document the role of South African Indians in the military from the time of the Anglo-boer War, the two World Wars until present day. Last week the organisation hosted one of many fundraising drives to raise R20 000 towards obtaining the infrastructure needed to document the history.

During last Sunday’s event, an FN R1 assault rifle was raffled at the Trade Route Mall in Johannesburg.

Lenasia resident Naleehi Singh was announced as the winner of that draw on Sail’s Facebook page. Conrad Nagiah, Sail’s spokesperson, said the event raised R7 000 and generated public interest.

“We had many inquiries into the organisation which was promising. We hope to have an event in Durban very soon,” Nagiah said.

He said they would use the money for the set up required to conduct further research and documentation into their military history.

“We plan to archive historical accounts dating back from the Angloboer War, both the World Wars to present day where we have active duty officers,” said Nagiah.

He said Sail was registered as a nonprofit organisation and their primary focus was the preservation of the South African Indian military history and its heritage.

“Members will comprise military veterans, serving members and civilians who have an interest. We also actively participate in military memorials along with the South African Legion of Military Veterans to honour fallen South African soldiers,” he said.

Nagiah said the preservation of their heritage was for the benefit of future generations.

“I have spoken to youngsters and they are in awe and amazement when I tell them South African Indians have served and continue to serve in the military. I tell them that while they play games like Call of Duty, people are living it and have lived through it,” said the veteran.

Sail has aimed for increased public awareness through museums and annual memorial parades, publishing information in print and online platforms, engaging with authorities to advocate the preservation of places of significance, maintaining monuments, restoring sites of significance and ensuring participation of South African Indians in the military with their communities.