A new documentary to be released next month was inspired by Kiru Naidoo’s book.
The vibrant and distinctive township of Chatsworth is set to take centre stage in an upcoming documentary Made in Chatsworth.
Renowned publisher turned filmmaker, Anivesh Singh, spearheads this project, which promises to unfold the rich tapestry of Chatsworth's history and culture.
The documentary, born from the pages of local historian Kiru Naidoo's memoir of the same title, has been in the making for four years.
“The response to the book both here and abroad was nothing short of amazing, with the first edition selling out within months,” said Singh.
The idea for a cinematic adaptation emerged during a book launch at B Nagiah’s butchery in Midrand, where an old resident expressed a collective sentiment – “wouldn't it be nice to see ourselves in a movie?”
Singh, undeterred by the financial challenges of film-making, turned to social media to gauge interest and explored crowd-funding possibilities among Chatsworth's widespread fan-base.
He said while funding remained a hurdle, contributions from supporters have poured in, although the project still fell short of its target.
Naidoo, optimistic about the film’s future, expressed confidence that neither he nor Singh would have to mortgage their homes to see their vision come to life.
A significant aspect of the documentary revolves around Chatsworth's religious diversity. Naidoo highlighted the various places of worship, from the Hare Krishna temple, the Siva Alayam, to the Velankanni Catholic Church, showcasing the township's unique harmony in the face of different faiths.
“Chatsworth is a lesson in religious harmony. We have mosques next door to churches and temples and never a quarrel between them, unlike so many troubled places on the planet,” remarked Naidoo.
While the film captures the essence of Chatsworth's markets, eateries, and daily life, it also delves into its political history.
Singh commented on the changing face of Chatsworth, challenging the apartheid design that initially designated it as a segregated Indian township.
The documentary addresses the shifting demographics revealed by the 2011 Census, highlighting the evolving linguistic and cultural landscape of Chatsworth.
Singh emphasised the need for Chatsworth’s unique narrative not to be relegated to the side-lines of history but to be recognised as an integral part of the broader South African story.
The film aims to shine a spotlight on Chatsworth’s joys, challenges and its people’s resilience.
“Chatsworth’s special story is that with hard work and unity, one can build something out of nothing.”
The documentary is expected to hit the big screen on Saturday December 9.