KwaZulu-Natal is blessed with a rich tapestry of peoples and cultures. Our work in building unity and social cohesion centres on respecting and celebrating each other’s faiths and ways of life.
In the most recent population count, Statistics South Africa estimated our population at 57.78 million. Our Province is home to 11.4 million people. South Africans of Indian origin number just over 1.5 million or 2.6% of our national population.
For historical reasons going back to the British colonial policy of indentured enslavement, the vast majority of them reside in KwaZulu-Natal. While the Indian community subscribes to different faiths, Hinduism is the most dominant tradition. Deepavali as one of Hinduism’s most significant festivals is deeply entrenched in the cultural fabric of our Province.
We note also the deep environmental consciousness in the Hindu community by gradually reducing the reliance on fireworks and celebrating Diwali in its original form as a festival of lights. Caring for the environment is a priority in the sustainable development trajectory of our Province as the impact of climate change is felt everywhere from drought to flash floods.
In extending these greetings to the Hindu community we also acknowledge with great pride the activists and freedom fighters produced by the community in our historic struggle for freedom and justice.
On behalf of the government and people of KwaZulu-Natal, I extend our good wishes to the Hindu community for a joyous celebration. May there be peace and goodwill among all.