In memory of Vick: A wife’s heartfelt tribute to her soulmate
Helena and Vick Panday. Vick was one of five people killed near the New Ahobilam Temple of Protection on Friday when an extension under construction gave way.
Image: Facebook
The fatal tragedy that struck the Verulam community on Friday, December 12, has plunged friends and family into mourning, as they recalled the vibrant life and enduring legacy of Vick Panday, who was affectionately remembered by his wife, Helena.
Five people, including Vick, were killed when an extension under construction near the New Ahobilam Temple of Protection in Redcliffe, Verulam gave way.
At Vick’s funeral held on Tuesday, Helena described him as an “incredible soulmate,” whose impact on the world extended far beyond his immediate relationships.
In a video taken by IOL, speaking for Helena, Sudeshni Prithipal expressed deep sorrow and condolences to all affected by this devastating loss.
“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.
“Our beautiful journey together was also riddled with bumpy rides and complications, but you truly fulfilled my life from the very moment that you said hello. The very hello kept us soaring and exploring. I am still stunned in realising your ability to fill so many roles in our personal life, society and beyond, so effortlessly. Wow.”
Helena said she is honoured to have been Vick’s wife.
“Vick, you are truly iconic. Thank you, my great love. I will always love you.”
Helena also thanked all those who honoured Vick and recognised his passionate commitment to fostering respect and unity for better beings.
She also spoke about the four others who died alongside her husband: Vasudeva Datta Das, Kishore Hurribhujan, Jayseelan (Jayce) Perumal and Abdul Prabhus. Each, as highlighted in the moving address, made indelible marks on the hearts of those who loved them.
Vick’s and Vasudeva Datta Das’s funerals were held together at River Range Ranch in Verulam.
The funerals of Vick Panday and Vasudeva Datta Das were held together at River Range Ranch on Tuesday.
Image: Chumani Mazwi
“To the family’s friends and loved ones of each of these magnanimous souls that departed this mortal world in companionship with Vick, I humbly request for your forgiveness and extend my heartfelt condolences to you all,” Helena said.
“I personally would have gladly exchanged places without any hesitation, simply to continue walking by Vick’s side, too. But sadly, similarly to all of you, I remain here. Gutted and scrambling to make sense of our empty home, too. I am truly deeply sorry for the pain that you are encountering, and we pray for strength in the days ahead. Jai Shri Krishna.”
“As our hearts keep on shattering, we need to implore the incredible legacies created by each of these beautiful beings.”
Helena said Vick would not be at peace if he were the only one being applauded. Instead, he would “yell over the heavens that we need to see beyond this reality that conjures immeasurable pain and suffering”.
Meanwhile, tributes for the victims continue to stream in.
The South African Hindu Maha Sabha extended its heartfelt condolences to the families and loved ones affected by the Verulam building collapse.
“This deeply distressing incident has brought immense sorrow to our community, and we mourn the untimely loss of precious lives. In this moment of grief, we turn to the Divine for strength and guidance, praying that all those who are suffering may be blessed with peace, comfort and inner resilience,” the Hindu Maha Sabha said.
“May the departed souls be embraced by Divine grace and attain eternal peace (Shanti). We pray that their families and loved ones are granted courage, patience and spiritual fortitude to endure this painful period. As a community rooted in compassion, unity, and service (Seva), we stand in solidarity with all those affected and offer our prayers for healing and hope during this time of deep sorrow.”
The Consulate General of India, Durban, expressed its deepest condolences to the government and the people of South Africa.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the grieving families who have lost their loved ones and all those affected by this tragedy,” the Consulate General of India, Durban, said.
“We pray for the speedy and complete recovery of the people injured.”
thobeka.ngema@inl.co.za