Philanthropist Ishwar Ramlutchman embarks on Shembe pilgrimage to foster unity

AIMED at fostering social cohesion between communities, philanthropist and businessman Prince Ishwar Ramlutchman Mabheka Zulu recently embarked on the annual holy pilgrimage by the Nazareth Baptist Church (Church of Shembe).

Ramlutchman joined more than a million of the church’s members, braving the rough terrain and rain to walk barefoot for more than 70km from Ebuhleni (Shembe village) in Inanda to the holy mountain of Khenana.

He said he decided to join the church members due to the good relations he shared with the Ebuhleni church leader, Mduduzi Unyazi Lwezulu Shembe.

“I have known his holiness for more than a decade, and have fostered good relations between Indian and African communities. However, these relations stem from my master, Swami Sivananda’s teachings. My master was universal and said we must adapt, adjust and accommodate. We must also unify, love and serve people.

“It is based on these principles of my master that I continue his work to unite people and foster good relations. This had led me to form the relationship with the Shembe community and his holiness."

Ramlutchman said during the walk, he felt the spirit of unity.

“We started at midnight and walked for about 76km barefoot through the rough terrain, heavy rains and lightning, but nothing deterred me. While walking, the only things on my mind were that I would build good relations among our nation and show respect to his holiness for his love and dedication towards us.

“Over a million members walked, and throughout, I felt the spirit of oneness and Godliness. I also witnessed a miracle. It was lightning and people were resting under the trees. His holiness took his umbrella and pointed it towards the sky. The lighting stopped.

“I have seen many miracles during my time spent with his holiness. We share a close bond based on love and respect. When possible, I also attend services at their various temples. It is one of the largest churches on the continent. I always receive love from the members. I am fortunate as the only Indian to have good relations with the church and its leader."

Ramlutchman said the church, which was founded in 1910, was based on various values, including African, traditional, cultural and moral.

“Over the years the church has progressed and under the leadership of his holiness, you will see that he is promoting togetherness, that people must turn to their roots and lead good lives. He also encourages the preservation of wildlife and nature conservation because ultimately nature cares for you.

“Social cohesion is also something we should all work at achieving because in our country, we are faced with many difficulties. We need each other to mainly build our country and serve humanity. When you care for others, there is always a blessing in return and you live in a peaceful society,” he said.

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