Chapter 10: About Hairstyles and Funerals: A South African Indian Perspective

I come from Indian descent and grew up in the Durban. I moved to Johannesburg around 2017. I come from diverse cultures: my family is made up of individuals who practise Christianity and Hinduism. My culture is embedded in respect for others, being humble and staying true to myself. My experiences and upbringing have certainly influenced the way I view the world in a number of ways. My cultural background has shown me the importance of diversity, humility, and compassion for all individuals, and I always uphold the saying: ‘treat others the way you would want to be treated’.

My family may be diverse, but we are all connected by a profound regard for one another, a dedication to humility, and a set of values based on sincerity and integrity. These values have shaped my perspective and influence how I interact with my surroundings. They were not merely taught to me but were carried out in my everyday life.