Remembering Valliamma: the young martyr who inspired a nation
Veliatham “Prega” Moonsamy told a gathering at the Saiva Sithantha Sungum Temple in Lenasia on Saturday that the name of his grand aunt, Valliamma Munuswamy Mudliar, should be etched in history.
"Not only in South Africa and India but across the world as a symbol of youthful bravery."
He was speaking at a memorial held by the Progressive Tamil Movement that honoured the young martyr on the 111th anniversary of her death. February 22 also marked her birthday.
Moonsamy said his grand aunt was a young yet mighty soul; a girl whose courage defied the oppressors of her time, whose resilience inspired a nation, and whose sacrifice remained a beacon of hope and strength.
"She was born in 1898 to Tamil immigrant parents in South Africa. Valliamma grew up witnessing firsthand the brutal discrimination and injustice faced by the Indian community under oppressive colonial rule. From an early age, she understood that the fight for dignity and freedom required sacrifice. While most teenagers dream of their futures, Valliamma was already dedicating hers to a greater cause - the struggle for justice."
He said under the guidance of Mahatma Gandhi, Valliamma joined the Satyagraha movement, a non-violent resistance campaign against unjust laws.
"Despite her young age, Valliamma fearlessly participated in protests, marches, and demonstrations against discriminatory policies. She faced police batons, imprisonment, and hardships with a heart full of unwavering resolve.
"In 1913, when Gandhi called for a mass strike against unjust taxes and restrictions on Indian workers, Valliamma stepped forward, despite knowing the risks. She marched for miles, rallied her people, and fearlessly courted arrest. Her crime? Demanding basic human rights.
"The colonial authorities showed no mercy. At just 16 years old, she was imprisoned under inhumane conditions, suffering from harsh treatment, inadequate food, and exposure to deadly diseases. By the time she was released, her frail body had endured more than it could bear. Yet, when Gandhi visited her and asked if she regretted her sacrifice, she responded with words that still echo through history: 'I do not regret it. I am glad I did it'."
Shortly after, on February 22, 1914, Valliamma breathed her last.
Moonsamy said she did not live to see the impact of her sacrifice, but her spirit continued to inspire countless freedom fighters.
He said his grand aunt's story was a testament that age does not define courage and that even a young girl, armed with conviction, could shake the foundations of oppression.
"She stands as a reminder that true strength lies not in might but in the will to stand up for justice, no matter the cost."
Moonsamy said it was vital to ensure that her sacrifice was not in vain and children should be taught her story to honor her legacy and to continue the fight for justice, equality, and freedom wherever injustice exists.
Nadas Pillay, the interim chairperson of the Progressive Tamil Movement, said during his leadership as the President of the Tamil Federation of Gauteng, they started commemorating Valliamma's life and legacy.
"We have been doing this because we would like to see more Valliammas standing up against injustice in whichever forms among our communities and the broader society," said Pillay.
"In the process, we are also promoting social cohesion, educating about social justice, and encouraging personal and community reflections."
The commemoration included prayers, and devotional and freedom songs.
He said Valliamma's life and legacy were an integral part of shared history and that her participation in the Indian Independence Movement in South Africa alongside Gandhi highlighted the significant contributions made by women and marginalised communities to the Struggle for freedom and equality.
"Valliamma's legacy extends beyond her historical significance, having a profound impact on our culture and society. Her story serves as a powerful inspiration for young people."
Pillay said they have also recognised and honored veteran activists such as Amma Naidoo, Amina Cachalia, Angela Naidoo, Mary Moodley, Manibhen Sita, Winnie Mandela, Frene Ginwala, Sophie De Bruyn, Navaneetham Pillay and Barbara Hogan.
The Progressive Tamil Movement is a collective of individuals from diverse backgrounds in politics, social activism, and community service. They focus on addressing the concerns of the Tamil community, while promoting inclusivity, social cohesion, and mutual respect among all communities.