South Africa’s Oldest Hindu Temple Risks Services Being Cut Over Unpaid Bills, Fraud Allegations

Last Updated:January 18, 2026, 22:08 IST

Shree Ambalavaanar Alayam in Durban faces closure due to financial crisis and fraud allegations. SAHMS urges community support and announces a forensic audit to protect the legacy.

151-year-old Shree Ambalavaanar Alayam (Facebook)

The 151-year-old first Hindu temple in South Africa’s Durban has declared that it runs a risk of discontinuing its civic services due to the pending bill of over half a million rands amid allegations of fraud.

PTI quoted the South African Hindu Maha Sabha (SAHMS) urging the community to save the Shree Ambalavaanar Alayam, declared a Heritage Site in 1980, that was established by indentured labourers who arrived in Durban in 1860 from India.

The dire financial condition of the temple was highlighted when the temple authorities posted a notice on its Facebook page last week making the allegations while not naming any officials.

According to PTI, the temple is reportedly struggling to maintain the temple after allegations that donations and other funds were diverted to private bank accounts rather than the temple account.

The authorities has announced the decision to launch a forensic audit.

“The reality of the situation is that the Alayam currently has an outstanding account with the eThekwini Municipality at approximately half a million rand, which is as a result of poor management and mishandling of funds within the NPO (non-profit organisation).

“Our Alayam is in a financial crisis and may be the reason that our lamps will be turned off in the near future," the Facebook post read, adding that the temple’s executive management had since resolved to initiate a forensic audit.

“This audit will examine, verify and reconcile all financial transactions, funding records and reported inconsistencies, including those identified in relation to the existing auditor’s report. The outcome of the forensic audit will be addressed in accordance with applicable legal, fiduciary and regulatory requirements," the post said.

PTI quoted the executive stating that since the temple is a national monument, the relevant authorities would also be advised, further stating that this was in the interests of transparency, accountability and protection of the institute’s integrity, governance structures and stakeholders.

In the post, the authorities also requested all donations intended for the temple to be made “strictly and exclusively through official channels" and said it was aware of different private bank accounts that were used for the acceptance of donations under the previous management committee.

“We assure you that steps are being taken against these individuals criminally," it said.

Meanwhile, South African Hindu Maha Sabha (SAHMS) deputy president Professor Brij Maharaj told local media: “At this critical juncture, we call upon the entire community to unite in safeguarding this historic institution. Together, through co-operation and shared responsibility, we can uphold the values of honesty, respect and service that have sustained our faith for over 150 years."

He also vowed SAHMS’ support in strengthening governance, preserving its legacy, and ensuring ethical financial management. “Let us work collectively to restore confidence and protect this sacred space for future generations," he added.

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