Celebrating 150 Years : Firewalking at Africa’s Oldest Hindu Temple
For the past 150 years, devotees have been gathering at Umbilo Shree Ambalavaanar Alayam, also known as Cato Manor Second River Temple, to take part in the sacred tradition of firewalking. This ancient ritual, where devotees walk barefoot over burning embers, symbolises faith, endurance, and spiritual discipline.
Nestled amidst lush greenery, this temple is recognised as Africa’s oldest Hindu temple and the birthplace of firewalking in South Africa. Once a thriving hub of the Indian community, the temple and its surroundings were greatly impacted during apartheid, when residents were forcibly displaced. Despite this, devotees continue to travel from distant places such as Phoenix and Shallcross to participate in religious ceremonies.
This year, as the temple celebrates its 150th anniversary, extensive restoration work has been completed to preserve its rich history and spiritual significance. Declared a national monument in 1980, the temple remains a symbol of unwavering faith and resilience.
A Temple with a Rich Legacy
According to resident priest Guru Dhanasargren Govender, Umbilo Shree Ambalavaanar Alayam is often referred to as the ‘Mother Temple’ as it was the first in Durban to introduce the firewalking tradition, drawing thousands of devotees each year.
Govender recalls how Cato Manor was once a vibrant Indian settlement, with the temple serving as a spiritual and cultural centre for the community. Even after people were forcibly removed, a dedicated group of devotees continued their traditions, ensuring that the temple remained active. Today, it is also a well-known tourist attraction, with visitors coming from different parts of the world, including Germany.
The Firewalking Experience
A key figure in the annual firewalking ceremony is Krishna Reddy, the temple chairman, who is popularly known as the ‘Firebreaker’. Every year, he is the first to walk across the burning embers, a tradition he has followed for over 25 years.
Speaking about the experience, he says, “When you step onto the embers, your mind becomes completely blank. You just focus, and it is the most incredible feeling.”
Reddy emphasises the importance of preparing for the ritual, which requires fasting, meditation, and self-discipline. During the festival, the murti of Goddess Draupadi Amman is placed near the fire pit, guiding devotees as they walk towards it.
“You look at the Mother (Draupadi Amman), and she calls you. You just walk. You feel the heat, but it is not unbearable. In all these years, I have never been burned.”
Beyond being a sacred tradition, firewalking is a symbol of devotion, courage, and unwavering faith, making it one of the most significant Hindu rituals in Africa. As the temple completes 150 years, it continues to serve as a beacon of faith, culture, and tradition for future generations
- Religion World Bureau
