STRUGGLE HERO AHMED KATHRADA CELEBRATED IN NEW FILM

The documentary feature film, Ahmed Kathrada: A Man For All Seasons premiered in Durban last night as a special tribute to Mr. Kathrada, marking his 85^th birthday which he celebrated on 21 August and to commemorate the 25^th Anniversary of his release from prison on 15 October 1989 after 26 years of incarceration.

The film, produced by Anant Singh, follows Mr. Kathrada on his extraordinary life journey as an activist, a Rivonia trialist, a prisoner on Robben Island to his present day activities, including the founding of the Ahmed Kathrada Foundation to continue his legacy as a lifelong activist for social justice. Featured in the film are exclusive interviews with his political mentors; fellow Rivonia trialists including Nelson Mandela, Walter Sisulu and Denis Goldberg; fellow Robben Island prisoners and close friends and colleagues.

The premiere also presented a rare opportunity for the gathering of many struggle legends and stalwarts in Durban, among whom were former Minister and fellow Robben Islander, Sbu Ndebele; former Constitutional Court judge, Lewis Skweyiya; retired High Court Judge, Thumba Pillay; Ela Gandhi; Swaminathan Gounden; Gcina Mhlope and Sam Ramsamy, as well as a host of struggle activists.

Commenting after the screening, Anant Singh said, “Kathy is an exceptional man who has given his entire life to the freedom of our people. Our film is a tribute to him and we hope that it inspires people, especially the youth, to emulate his example.”