DURBAN - Isipingo - it’s a bustling town to the south of Durban, famous for sardine sightings, one of the oldest Hindu temples in KZN and, of course, bunny chows.
Now, a new organisation, Isipingo Roots, is intent on bringing back the memories of this vibrant south coast town and recreating a sense of community in the face of many new challenges.
Melisha Gounder, chairperson of Isipingo Roots committee, said its concept started a few years ago, when long-standing residents of Isipingo came together informally.
“A family fun day was held, and everyone spoke about the memories they had about Isipingo. One of our committee members, Bull Govender, who is now sadly late, was one of the driving forces behind Isipingo Roots. He loved the town so much and spoke about the wonderful times they had growing up, that he wanted to celebrate it further,” she said.
She added Govender wanted to celebrate the rich culture, heritage and history of the 60s, 70s and 80s - the music of the Crescendoes at the Railway Hotel and at the club Khayam, bunny chows at Island Hotel, and the Easter Festival at the Mariammen Temple in Old Main Road.
Isipingo was also well known for soccer, especially when fans filled the Isipingo Beach grounds to watch teams such as Beach Boys, Ocean City, Colleens, Protea Power, Reunion Santos, Lincoln City and Malabar in action.
An outdoor movie night has already been held, and a social dance party will be held today to help raise funds for a free family fun day which will be held in December.