Professor Anil Sooklal honoured with a Sivananda Peace Award for his efforts to develop South Africa

In a heartfelt ceremony held in Inanda on Sunday, the Sivananda World Peace Foundation bestowed the prestigious Sivananda Peace Award on Professor Anil Sooklal, South Africa’s High Commissioner to India.

This recognition comes as a tribute to his significant contributions to development within the country, particularly as International Yoga Day approaches on June 21.

President of the Sivananda World Peace Foundation, Ishwar Ramlutchman, expressed deep admiration for Sooklal’s quiet yet impactful work, stating, “We know he has been doing great and silent work in the country for decades.”

Reflecting on their first encounter in 2009 during a presidential delegation to India, Ramlutchman praised Sooklal's ability to forge productive partnerships, particularly with his Indian counterparts. “That silent work that you’ve been continuously doing on behalf of our country, we say a big thank you,” Ramlutchman added.

The Sivananda Peace Award has previously been granted to notable figures including His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, Dr Nelson Mandela, and the late Winnie Madikizela-Mandela.

In a gesture filled with honour, Ramlutchman stated, “Today, we feel honoured to present it to you.” He highlighted the importance of recognising such individuals while they are still living, urging them to continue their contributions to the nation.

In his acceptance speech, a humble Sooklal attributed the accolade not to himself, but to the collaborative work of his government role over the last 30 years.

“I’m extremely grateful that I’m being acknowledged for the work I do,” he said, emphasising that his position is not just a title, but a trust bestowed by the government to promote South Africa's interests abroad.

As an ambassador for South Africa in India, Sooklal spoke passionately about his responsibilities to foster beneficial relationships that can lead to investments and job opportunities for South Africans. Currently, approximately 150 Indian companies operate in South Africa, with Vedanta Mining leading the charge by employing around 6,500 people in the Northern Cape.

“This is what we are constantly doing at the High Commission,” Sooklal explained, focused on drawing further Indian investments into South Africa’s economy while simultaneously promoting skills development.

Highlighting the collaborative efforts unfolding between the two nations, Sooklal noted that India has initiated significant skills development programmes for South Africans, including a skills centre in Tshwane and another underway in KwaZulu-Natal.

“They are providing the expertise and creating opportunities to skill South Africans,” he stated, capturing the essence of his mission to bridge the gap between South Africa and India economically and socially.

The ceremony not only honoured Sooklal's contributions but also served as a celebration of international ties and the spirit of partnership, reinforcing the importance of recognising those whose dedicated work often goes unnoticed.

The event encapsulated the ethos of the Sivananda World Peace Foundation in promoting peace and development through dedicated service and mutual respect.

DAILY NEWS