First Sikh Temple in MOSSEL BAY, South Africa

The Garden Route in South Africa runs for over 900 kms. and there are about 300 Indians in Mossel Bay area. There is no Sikh or Hindu temple along this route. The nearest Hindu temples are 450 kms either side of Mossel Bay in Port Elizabeth and Cape Town; or about 1750 kms away in Durban and Johannesburg.

At the 2009 Diwali function held in George, concern was expressed that due to lack of knowledge and information the Indians outside Cape Town, Durban and Johannesburg, have virtually forgotten their rich heritage and cultural values. Recently, because of non existence of resources, community activities, and guidance, Indian women and children in South Africa have started moving away from their faiths and converting to other religions. To try to rectify this problem, the entire Indian community felt that there was desperate need for a place for congregating.

On 18th November 2009, a plot of land was acquired to build the much needed cultural centre incorporating the first Sikh Gurudwara in the area.

The building will take six months to complete from approval of plans.

Initially the aim is to start providing food for the local poor people once a week, increasing this service to seven days a week, like at Makindu Temple in Kenya. We intend to extend facilities to provide overnight accommodation for those travelling between Cape Town and Port Elizabeth, irrespective of their caste, colour or creed. Eventually we hope to add a library, religious and educational activities, skills training, and support and help for the needy.

The total cost of the project is £350k. The estimated cost of building alone is £150k. This is heavily subsidized by the builder.

A number of local supermarkets are willing to donate bread and vegetables for the daily charity kitchen.

However, we still need and, are seeking, more physical, moral and financial support of all our well wishers to turn this ambitious project into reality.