national Arts Festival Banner

Monday, January 31, 2022

DEATH OF TERENCE PILLAY


(Above: Terence Pillay)

Popular Durban-based print, radio and television journalist Terence Pillay passed away on January 27, 2022, after a long battle with renal failure.

Nisholl Thulukanan, Terence’s sister-in-law, paid tribute at the funeral:

"Terence was born on the 5th July 1970. He was the second son of Pastor Daisy and the late Pastor Sonny Thulukanan.

Terence was a devoted son, brother, brother-in-law and uncle. He was a someone to everyone. Once he completed his Matric he studied at the University of Westville. He obtained his Bachelor of Education degree and pursued his LLB thereafter.

In his early years, he taught at various institutions including his own speech and drama company where he mentored aspiring young students. He thereafter diverted his focus to journalism which became his passion from then until now.

Terence was and still is a very influential and popular name in KZN for his incredible work as an investigative journalist. His work also took him to the far reaches of the globe to bring back compelling stories for both print and television.

In the process, he interviewed some of the biggest names like Claire Danes, Enrique Iglesias, Hillary Swank, John Cleese, Mandy Patinkin, Rupert Friend, Westlife, Rachel Allen, Terence Howard, Taraji P Henson, Howie Mandell, Joe Cocker and Eddie Grant.

He also hosted a cooking show called Food for Living on Glow TV and was a correspondent for Global Health TV and Turkish Radio and TV.

Terence described himself as a fiercely patriotic Durban native and while his work takes him around the world, his roots are planted firmly in Durban, South Africa.

In an illustrious career spanning 24 years in print, radio and television personality, Terence Pillay had seen it all and done it all.

Moving from a presenter in front of the camera in shows like KZN 2Nite, Good Morning South Africa, Impressions, Free Spirit, Your Good Health and Front Row, Terence was a portrayal of talent and professionalism. He won colossal awards for his work in print and television journalism. He was also a finalist in the Discovery Health Journalism Awards. Terence was a devoted Christian and loved the Lord Jesus. He spent his former years at Faith Revival Church in Phoenix and later moved to CCF International Church in Wyebank and once again was a faithful member for 20 odd years.

During his years in the respective churches, he served faithfully in the music ministry. He loved singing and worshipping the Lord.

Terence is survived by his mother, brothers Trevor and Theo, sister-in-law Nisholl, nieces Erin and Tylea- and a host of family and friends.”


Comment from artSMart Editor, Caroline Smart: Terence Pillay was the MC of the former Durban Theatre Awards. He was a delight to work with and always completely prepared for the event. He will be sorely missed.