Our History
More than a century ago, a Gengaiammen temple was built at the lower end of Booth Road on the banks of the Umkumbaan River, popularly known as First River. This was constructed of reeds and grass. It was washed away in the floods in 1905. The temple was relocated further along the river bank.This site was ideal, being on a major road junction and therefore, right in the heart of the Indian community.
The Temples Origin
Temples and religion played a significant role in the lives of all Hindus. They built a temple wherever they settled. When the indenture labourers completed their service agreement with the sugar estates, they had the option to either return to India on a free passage or settle in South Africa. Many of them decided to stay. A large number of them settled in Cato Manor and became farmers. They grew fruit and vegetables.
