The SAHDS believes that a more balanced and inclusive account of history will promote unity and a better understanding of South Africa’s diverse heritage, particularly following the democratic transition led by Nelson Mandel
Aman Singh
A prominent Hindu organisation in South Africa has urged education authorities to expand the coverage of Indian South African history in school textbooks currently under revision. The South African Hindu Dharma Sabha says existing material does not fully reflect the community’s contributions since the arrival of indentured labourers in 1860.
Maharaj said Indian South Africans have played a key role in shaping the nation’s economic, cultural, political and social life. He stressed that acknowledging this history would help strengthen understanding between communities and support nation building.
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In an open letter, SAHDS president Ram Maharaj called for at least double the current content across all grades
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He argued that the history of Indians in South Africa must not be overlooked, adding that limited coverage risks distorting the country’s past
The organisation also highlighted the harsh conditions faced by early Indian labourers, describing their lives as marked by hardship, discrimination and limited opportunities. It said greater attention to these experiences would challenge claims that Indians historically enjoyed privilege.
SAHDS further called for clearer recognition of the role played by Indians in the struggle against apartheid. It noted that the Natal Indian Congress, founded by Mahatma Gandhi in 1894, began campaigning against injustice years before the African National Congress was established.
The letter also urged textbook writers to include notable figures and community leaders who contributed to building schools, hospitals and social institutions. It called for mention of discrimination faced by Hindus during colonial times, including temple demolitions and forced removals.
