The passing of Ashwin Trikamjee, a revered leader of the South African Hindu Maha Sabha, sent shockwaves across South Africa on Thursday, March 20, 2025, as tributes poured in for a figure described as a ‘constant source of strength, wisdom, and guidance’ to many. Trikamjee, who died after a short illness, had a profound impact within both the legal and religious sectors, leaving behind a legacy marked by compassion and community service.
Born on November 29, 1944, in Durban's Grey Street area, Trikamjee was a trailblazer in South Africa's legal landscape. He was the first non-white President of the Association of Law Societies of South Africa and served in numerous capacities including as Chairperson of the Durban Legal Association and President of the Natal Law Society between 1992 and 1994. His impressive career culminated with his role as an executive consultant at Garlicke & Bousfield before his passing.
In a statement shared following his death, the 1860 Heritage Centre, where Trikamjee served as a board director, expressed deep condolences to his family and acknowledged how significantly he contributed to society. “He will be deeply missed by all who knew him. We offer our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues. Om Shanti,” the post read, encapsulating the sentiments of many mourning his loss.
Trikamjee's life was characterized by a relentless pursuit of justice and equality. His commitment to social issues was evident early on when he became a member of the African People's Democratic Union of South Africa during his school years, a testament to his dedication toward racial equality and civil rights. Throughout his life, he addressed both national and international audiences, promoting human rights and upholding the rule of law.
Vivian Reddy, a close friend of Trikamjee for over 45 years, shared his grief. "With a shattered heart, I share the heart-breaking news of the sudden passing of my dearest friend and confidant of over 45 years, Ashwin Trikamjee. Just yesterday, I stood by his side in the hospital, speaking with him, never imagining it would be our final conversation," he stated, emphasizing Trikamjee's integrity and the close bond they shared.
Trikamjee was also active in fostering interfaith dialogue as the inaugural Chairperson of the National Religious Leaders Forum and he provided guidance during the COVID-19 pandemic as a member of the Ministerial Advisory Committee. His contributions to sports were equally significant; he played pivotal roles in the South African Soccer Federation, serving as the longest-serving council member and as President of the Federation Professional League.
As an influential attorney and legal educator, he marked 50 years of his legal career in April 2024. At the time of his passing, many of his colleagues spoke highly of his mentorship. Yvonne Boden, CEO of Garlicke & Bousfield, reflected on his remarkable dedication to legal education, stating, "His contribution within the realm of legal education is unmatched and many attorneys will remember with affection and gratitude the role Ashwin played in assisting them to qualify as practicing attorneys."
Trikamjee's influence went beyond law and sports; he held various high-profile positions, including directorates within significant corporations such as Old Mutual, the SA Post Office, and the SABC. His expertise was recognized in various capacities, as he chaired bodies like the KwaZulu-Natal Gambling Board and the Estate Agency Affairs Board, demonstrating his versatile leadership across different fields.
Acknowledgement of his passing invoked a flood of responses from all sectors of society. Selvan Naidoo from the 1860 Heritage Centre remarked, "Ashwin tirelessly served our society in many capacities from sports administration, cultural activism and religious leadership, leaving behind a legacy of love, kindness, and compassion that touched the lives of so many people. We are deeply saddened by the passing of Ashwin Trikamjee." Additionally, Yogas Nair, editor of the POST newspaper, commented on Trikamjee’s lasting impact, saying, "Mr Trikamjee has been a dear personal friend and one to the POST newspaper for many, many years. He leaves a legacy that will continue to motivate and inspire us all. He will be deeply missed."
The legal and religious communities will remember Trikamjee not just for his numerous accomplishments, but for his unwavering commitment to uplifting others. His extensive contributions towards justice, community support, and mentorship have not only shaped the landscape of South African law but have also inspired many to pursue a life of service.
As memorial arrangements for Ashwin Trikamjee are being planned, many anticipate opportunities to pay their last respects to a formidable figure whose ethos of compassion and dedication profoundly influenced countless lives.
