'Raj' Bodasing (1940-2025): the extraordinary legacy of a KZN icon

RAJESHWAR Bodasing, fondly known to many as Raj, passed away at the age of 85, leaving behind an extraordinary legacy that made him a part of the fabric of life, from Zululand to Durban.

- Haresh Ouderajh

Born into a family whose name has been woven into the history of KwaZulu-Natal for more than a century, Raj forged a path of distinction across the legal, business and farming worlds.

He was, as many have described him, truly “a man of the world”.

He was an outstanding lawyer, renowned for his versatile skills in both criminal and civil law. In 1975, he co-founded the Durban-based law firm, Raj Bodasing, MA Singh and Partners.

Many young lawyers cut their teeth under his mentorship, recalling his willingness to listen, to teach, and to guide.

Fiercely independent in thought, he coupled his legal acumen with deep commitments to social justice. Long before South Africa’s democratic transition, he was politically active, supporting the African National Congress and working within the Natal Indian Congress.

I have known him personally as a mentor, friend and business partner since 1990. Outside the courtroom, Raj was a visionary entrepreneur with a remarkable ability to anticipate market trends and build enduring enterprises.