Just outside of Pietermaritzburg lay a village of Plessislaer, now called Imbali. Many Hindu families had settled here. About 500 Indian children attended an English medium school. The absence of any Hindu institution in the area was of great concern to Mr F Satyapal. 

In 1924, he convened a meeting to address the lack of Hindu institutions in the area, leading to the formation of the "Nagri Hithaishi Sabha", (later renamed Arya Samaj, Plessislaer in 1926.)

The same year (1924), the first Hindi school was established with over 100 students. The first teachers, Pundit S. Dookran and Mr. S. Chedie, were followed by dedicated educators who produced accomplished Hindi scholars.

Due to implementation of the Group Areas Act, the entire Indian community relocated to Pietermaritzburg. This undoubtedly caused several setbacks, however, the Samaj re-established itself in the suburbs of Northdale. 

The Hindi school restarted in 1976 with lessons being taught by Pundit S. Dookran until his demise.

Mrs Nirmala Mungaldave took the reigns and taught Hindi for over 25 years. Due to family commitments Mrs Mungaldav resigned in 2010. Although retired Mrs Mungaldave still assists voluntarily with preparing students for talks, cultural events etc.

Plessislaer Arya Samaj is affiliated to the Hindi Shiksha Sangh South Africa.

Junior and Senior grade classes are conducted. (From Prathma grade to Visharadh grade)

We offer both In-Person and Online classes.

Lessons are conducted by Punditha Shirley Maharaj  and Shrimathi Kavisha Maharaj.

Punditha Shirley Maharaj has been teaching Hindi at Plessislaer Arya Samaj since 2010.

Hindi lessons are conducted every Saturday between 1pm and 4pm.

Students are encouraged to participate in Cultural events throughout the year. 

Annual academic examinations are conducted by the Hindi Shiksha Sangh S.A followed by an Awards ceremony for successful students.