Indian South Africans

South Africa 2011 Indian or Asian population density map

Indian South Africans are citizens and residents of South Africa with ancestral origins in India. This community forms part of the larger Asian South African group. Indian South Africans, primarily of Hindu, Muslim, and Christian faiths, have a long history in South Africa, dating back to the 17th century, but the majority arrived as indentured laborers in the 19th century to work in the sugar cane plantations of what is now the KwaZulu-Natal province.

History

The first Indians arrived in South Africa in 1860 to work as indentured laborers on the sugar cane plantations. This migration was part of the British colonial government's efforts to address labor shortages in its colony. Over the next 50 years, more than 150,000 indentured laborers were brought to South Africa from India, primarily from the regions of Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and Gujarat. After their indenture period ended, many chose to stay in South Africa, laying the foundations of the Indian community in the country.

In addition to indentured laborers, a smaller number of Indian traders and merchants began to settle in South Africa, particularly in the Natal area, where they played a significant role in the development of the local economy. The Indian community faced significant discrimination and were subject to various forms of legal segregation, including the infamous Group Areas Act, which restricted their movement and residence.

Culture

Indian South Africans have maintained a strong cultural identity, with religion, cuisine, and music playing significant roles in community life. Festivals such as Diwali, Eid, and Christmas are widely celebrated, reflecting the community's diverse religious backgrounds. Indian cuisine, with its rich flavors and spices, has also become an integral part of South Africa's culinary landscape.

Contribution to the Anti-Apartheid Movement

The Indian community played a significant role in the struggle against apartheid. Notable figures such as Mahatma Gandhi began his political activism in South Africa, advocating for the rights of Indian laborers and later inspiring the broader anti-apartheid movement. Other prominent Indian South Africans, including Ahmed Kathrada and Fatima Meer, were instrumental in the fight against apartheid, working alongside Nelson Mandela and other leaders of the African National Congress.

Demographics

Today, Indian South Africans constitute approximately 2.5% of South Africa's total population. The majority reside in and around the city of Durban, which has one of the largest concentrations of Indians outside of India. The community is diverse, with languages such as English, Tamil, Hindi, and Gujarati being widely spoken.

Challenges

Despite their contributions to South African society, Indian South Africans have faced challenges, including racial discrimination and economic disparities. The legacy of apartheid, although officially ended, still impacts the community in various ways. However, Indian South Africans continue to play a vital role in the country's cultural, economic, and political life.

See Also

• History of South Africa
• Apartheid in South Africa
• Asian South Africans
• Demographics of South Africa

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