‘Do good, be good’: Durban man celebrates 100 years surrounded by family

Harilall Prabhoo Singh, a centenarian from Durban, celebrated his 100th birthday on November 7, 2026, surrounded by his family and friends. Born in 1926 in Illovo, on the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast, Singh's life story is one of hard work, honesty, kindness, and family. Growing up as the eldest of 16 children, Singh witnessed his family's humble beginnings as labourers working for the Illovo Sugar Estate, living in barracks built for mill workers.

Despite the challenges of his childhood, such as working in the sugar cane fields, cutting wood, and fetching water, Singh remained incredibly hardworking and disciplined. His maternal grandmother played a significant role in shaping his values, teaching him the importance of effort, honesty, and discipline. One memorable incident involved his grandmother giving him and his aunt calabashes to sell, only for the siblings to secretly increase the price and divide the extra money.

When confronted, they returned the money out of remorse, learning that true hard work involves doing what is right, even when no one is watching. Singh's childhood also included playing soccer for his school team, which won most of its matches, and later joining the Illovo Soccer Federation, where he participated in five-a-side matches.

Despite his responsibilities at home, Singh found time for education, traveling by train to Isipingo to attend Isipingo State-Aided Primary School at the age of 8. Mathematics was one of his favorite subjects, and he often came first in class, receiving books as prizes for his achievements. At 16, Singh began working in the guitar department at Gallo, a Durban-based music and sports factory, where he spent eight years helping manufacture guitars.

Realizing he wanted greater independence, he approached his manager to leave the company, stating that he needed a trade that would give him a reliable source of income. After gaining experience in the factory, Singh started his own plumbing business, which he operated until retiring at 60. The business was then passed down to his son and further to his grandson, who has expanded it into a thriving enterprise with over 20 vehicles and 60 employees.

In 1960, Singh married Kalawathi Rajbansi, a neighbor he met in late 1959. This milestone birthday celebration highlights the enduring legacy of a life built on hard work, honesty, kindness, and strong family ties.