Who can forget his prolific life and what he did against Apartheid in South Africa. How he went from being a lawyer in 1950 to a member of the African National Congress, was arrested and jailed for the next 24 years, and his incessant struggle to change the system and give the Africans choice and dignity in life. What hundreds of people wanted to do, he actually did with his political career and his sacrifice. Speaking of his contribution an African women says, “If he was not there, we would have no voice. So I love him for it." For others he is synonymous with all 'things great.'

Ahmed Kathrada, a friend of the the President and also an anti-apartheid activist recalls their prison time. He says, “Mandela was not well and the authorities offered him exemption from hunger strike but he refused. He said that he was an ordinary prisoner and would do what others are doing.” Talking about his incredible connection to people from all ages and generations, Kathrada says, “ He is a person who can relate to anybody from a small child to elders based on his sense of equality.”

Off late, his health has started failing, and last year he was hospitalized for a chest infection. This year on his birthday the people of South Africa want to celebrate his birthday with him as they are aware of the bitter truth that they might not get many more such years of togetherness.