Delayed by Pandemic, 35th Gandhi Walk Takes Place in Johannesburg

After being delayed for three years due to the COVID-19 pandemic, more than two thousand people joined the new format of a fun six-kilometre walk for the 35th edition of the annual Gandhi Walk held in Lenasia, Johannesburg.

The 35th edition of the annual Gandhi Walk, a popular event in the mainly-Indian suburb of Lenasia in Johannesburg, was held on Sunday after being postponed for three years due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The event saw participation from over two thousand people who joined in the new format of a fun six-kilometre walk, culminating with an array of entertainment.

Postponement and Resumption

In 2020, barely a month before the scheduled event as the pandemic began taking its toll globally, the Gandhi Walk Committee took a decisive step to postpone it indefinitely despite having already incurred significant costs in planning for 4,000 registered walkers. The traditional format included two distances - 15km for serious athletes and 5km for families, senior citizens and parents pushing prams - designed to cater to various fitness levels and interests. However, this year's iteration saw a shift towards a more casual six-kilometre walk that focused on enjoyment rather than competition.

This decision proved to be prudent when just two weeks before the initially planned date, President Cyril Ramaphosa announced a total lockdown. In previous years including one where he served as chief guest at these annual events; Ramaphosa had praised this initiative by lauding the Committee's efforts towards boosting social cohesion within their community.

A Tradition Continued

A notable presence at this year’s walk was Harivardan Pitamber – an uncanny look-alike of Mahatma Gandhi who has been partaking in this event for many years. He once again attracted much attention as participants eagerly clamoured for selfies with him during Sunday’s gathering. Pitamber’s involvement adds another layer of authenticity and connection to Mahatma Gandhi himself which only amplifies each participant's experience further.

The resumption of such community-based events like the Gandhi Walk is a testament to resilience and unity in the face of adversity. These occasions not only provide an opportunity for people to come together but also serve as a reminder of their shared heritage, values and commitment towards social cohesion.

In conclusion, despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, the spirit of community and solidarity has remained undeterred. The successful conduct of this year's Gandhi Walk stands as an affirmation that even in times of uncertainty and hardship, communal harmony and collective wellbeing remain at the heart of such endeavours. As we tread forward in these testing times, it becomes increasingly important to hold onto our roots while marching ahead with hopefulness and resilience.