Wife’s heartfelt tribute to KZN temple founder

THE community of Verulam gathered yesterday to mourn those who died when an extension to the temple in Redcliffe collapsed last Friday.

- THOBEKA NGEMA

Five people, including temple founder Vick Panday, were killed when an extension under construction near the New Ahobilam Temple of Protection in Redcliffe, Verulam gave way.

The others who died included senior devotee Vasudeva Datta Das, electrician Jayseelan Perumal and a worker, named as Abdul.

The Post newspaper reported that Kishore Haribhujan, a local farmer also died in the incident.

The funerals for Panday and Das were held yesterday at the River Range Ranch site in Verulam.

At Panday's funeral, a message from his wife Helena was read, by Sudeshni Prithipal, in which she described him as an "incredible soulmate" whose impact on the world extended far beyond his immediate relationships.

"My dearest Vick, you are my beautiful universe, and I find myself unable to breathe much these past few days. The immense impact of your departure is profound. But as we close this chapter of our adventures and design in this life together, through the tears, I do smile. I smile at the countless memories that we shared until the curtain fell, and I do find strength in all of the joyful moments that I had been blessed to share with you and the great souls that came with your love and association," Helena said.