Respected Durban author Aziz Hassim died
peacefully at his home on June 14, 2013, at the age of 77 after a short
illness.
The winner of a Sanlam Literary Award in
2001, he was passionate about his roots which were based in the Casbah, what is
now known as the Grey Street complex, and this area became the inspiration for his
debut novel The Lotus People. Further
acclaimed publications included The
Revenge of Kali and The Agony of
Valliamma.
In a tribute to Aziz Hassim in the Sunday
Tribune (June 16, 2013), friend and colleague Dennis Pather stated the author
“always resembled a distinguished academic at work, surrounded by shelves
overflowing with novels, newspapers and manuscripts.
“For the writer of three successful books,
the image was hardly surprising. But if you bothered to scratch a little below
the surface, you would have discovered a streetwise romantic at heart.”
On Facebook, well-known actor, director and
playwright Neil Coppen said: “Very sad to hear about the passing of celebrated
writer and friend Aziz Hassim. I will always remember him as a compulsive
storyteller, a man who enabled me to re- explore and imagine the city of Durban
through his enchanted and gentle eyes.”
Another successful actor, director and
playwright, Rajesh Gopie, also placed his tribute on Facebook: “I am saddened
to hear of the passing of Aziz Hassim. Aziz believed in me and my work. He
supported me, tried in everyway to help Indian stories and theatre find
prominence. In 2005 he personally raised R25,000 for me to put on The Coolie Odyssey at the Playhouse. We
have lost a great man. Rest in peace!”
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