Embracing Tamil heritage: Sadie Kandan’s cultural mission

WHEN Sadie Kandan returns from a two week sponsored cultural tour of Tamil Nadu in India, she intends to impart her knowledge to youth to “foster a sense of belonging to Tamil culture”.  

Kandan, 25, from Tongaat, is a marketing manager, and the secretary of the Shree Veeraboga Emperumal Temple. She is also an executive member of the South African Hindu Maha Sabha.

Kandan was recently selected by the Tamil Nadu Government to participate in a cultural programme across the state. It is aimed at showcasing the rich tapestry of Tamil civilisation.

She will travel to India at the end of the month. At the end of the tour, Kandan said she would be formally conferred with the title, Cultural Ambassador of Tamil Nadu. 

Kandan said her family had attended the Shree Veeraboga Emperumal Temple since she was a baby, and that her faith was unwavering. 

“As a baby, my grandmother used to take me to the temple for prayers and various festivals. This is when my love for religion and culture began. Later, my guru actively involved me in prayer. This included preparing and performing prayers,” said Kandan.  

She said she was also part of the temple’s Sunday school and this was where her love for music and dance started. 

“Tradition and culture are essential because they provide a sense of identity, belonging, and continuity. While growing up in a South Indian family, I have been influenced by our rich cultural heritage. Our traditions, such as celebrating Pongal and Tamil New Year, have taught me the importance of community, respect for elders, and gratitude for nature’s bounty. 

“The Tamil culture’s emphasis on language, literature, and art has also shaped my perspective and appreciation for the world. The works of great Tamil poets and philosophers, like Thiruvalluvar and Bharathi, have inspired me to embrace values like compassion, justice, and self-discipline.

“For me, tradition and culture are not just about rituals or customs. They are about the values, stories, and experiences that have been passed down through generations. They remind me of my roots and help me stay connected to my community. By embracing and honouring my Tamil heritage, I feel a sense of pride, purpose, and responsibility to carry forward these traditions in a way that respects the past while embracing the present.”

Kandan said it was an honour to be part of the cultural programme, which entailed visiting temples and ancestral villages and attending music and dance festivals.

“I hope to gain as much knowledge as possible to impart to others when I return. There is a lot one can gain from such a program such as understanding the history and traditions from the villages and developing a further sense of understanding of Tamil culture.

“By learning about their cultural and religious heritage, younger generations can gain a deeper understanding of their roots, traditions, and community. This knowledge helps them develop a sense of pride, self-awareness, and appreciation for the diversity that makes our world richer.

“Moreover, these values often emphasise the importance of community, family, and social harmony, which are vital for creating a more compassionate and inclusive society. By teaching these values to the younger generation, we can empower them to become thoughtful, engaged, and active citizens who are equipped to make a positive impact in the world.”

She said by taking small steps to learn about and celebrate one’s heritage, one could unlock a more authentic and fulfilling life. 

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