Fancy taking a ride to Nhlangwini, a rural township situated 30 minutes away from Umzinto?
You probably would if religious salvation awaits at the end of the journey.
Professor (honorary professor) of Languages and Culture at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (Westville campus), Professor Phyllis Zungu, is keen to turn the site containing rock formations depicting religious symbols into a natural heritage site.
She first came across the formations in 2001 when taking students on a field trip in search of San paintings.
“Instead of finding what we were looking for, local villagers showed us a rock face formation which they believed depicted Mother Mary carrying an infant child.
“I was astounded to see the image and was even more interested when they (the villagers) informed me that they had been offering prayers, including making religious sacrifices at the site since the days of their forefathers,” said Zungu.
It was only some years later when she took along some of her Indian friends to see the site she was informed that images of Hindu deities Lord Ganesha and Lord Hanuman also appeared on the rock face.
“What can I say; God is everywhere,” remarked Zungu.
“The locals have been seeking spiritual upliftment from this place for many years and if it worked for them, then maybe there is some positive energy that people can absorb from these unusual rock formations.”
Zungu said the area was lush with a species of the basil plant (tulsi tree).
“I was amazed to learn that this plant is of religious significance to Hindus.”
Retired educationist Dhunniram Moolchun, a member of the Shree Ramayan Sabha and the Springfield Hindu Sabha, visited the site.
He said: “These shapes have a definite resemblance to the deities and there is no indication that these formations were man-made. When I first saw the formation of Mother Mary, I was taken aback by its beauty. Once I got closer to the formation I felt obliged to kneel and pray.”
Janak Parekh, a fashion designer from India, has also shown interest in the rock sculptures and believes it’s a site of national importance.
“When I reached the site I was instantly inspired to pray. What’s also significant is that the head which resembles that of a monkey is looking to the east.
“We have also spoken to former KZN Premier S’bu Ndebele who was involved with the African Renaissance project.
“He is very interested in these rock formations but has advised us to create awareness of this site first before we can take it further,” said Parekh
Zungu said she hoped to turn this discovery into a tangible blessing for the community of Nhlangwini.
“There are no roads for people to access this site, if we can create the infrastructure and preserve these natural rock formations, we can create jobs for our local people and give our local economy a boost by inviting tourists.
“I have approached the local municipality for assistance but have not had a favourable response thus far.
Lindani Mzotho, the Communications Officer of the Ugu District Municipality, under whose jurisdiction the area falls, said: “We appreciate the work the professor has done and her contribution to the development of tourism in this area. However it would be advisable to get all stakeholders involved in this project before any decision can be taken on the future of the area.” - The Post