Thousands march for Gandhi

Thousands march for Gandhi

http://www.iol.co.za/news/south-africa/kwazulu-natal/thousands-marc...

Independent Online

PEACEFUL MOVEMENT: More than 2 000 people from all backgrounds gathered to march in honour of the principles of Mahatma Gandhi, Chief Albert Luthuli and Nelson Mandela. Picture: Terry Haywood

By Kamcilla Pillay - kamcilla.pillay@inl.co.za

A commitment to the values held dear by Mahatma Gandhi brought more than 2 000 people together for Sunday’s Gandhi Salt March.

The 16.8km walk began at 7am in Phoenix and ended at the Kings Park Athletic Stadium, with most marchers finishing by 11am, led by Premier Zweli Mkhize, organiser Ela Gandhi and eThekwini speaker Logie Naidoo.

“I’m heartened to see so many people here from different backgrounds, religions, ages and cultures – we are proud to gather here in the spirit of non-racialism,” said Mkhize.

He said the teachings of Gandhi, Chief Albert Luthuli and Nelson Mandela and the Struggle for human rights for all had brought India and SA closer together.

“Gandhi belongs to us all,” he said.

Some marchers, exhausted by the walk and scorching heat, took a break on the support vehicles, but resumed the walk later.

One of the organisers said a mother with an eight-month-old baby in a pram managed to complete the march.

All the participants received a T-shirt and medals were awarded to all those who completed it.

Chatsworth resident Rajes Sukhlal said that even though she needed a lift in the emergency vehicle 12km into the race, she was happy to have taken part.

“This is the third time I’ve taken part – it’s a lovely race and the cause is important,” she said.

First-time marchers Suraj and Sumaya Rajpal agreed, and said that, even though they weren’t able to complete the march they would definitely take part again next year.

Vishantha Nair, who walked the distance with her in-laws, said the march was a good way to spend time with family.

“I’m going to be recommending it to my friends too.”