Politics, Religion, and Polarization in Africa's Largest Indian Community

Many people associate the global Indian diaspora with countries like the U.S. and the U.K. However, nearly one in 10 diaspora Indians live in southeast Africa. In fact, for many decades, the city with the largest Indian population outside India was Durban, South Africa.

Indians have been in South Africa since the mid-1800s, numbering about 1.5 million people. According to 2012 census data, 41% are Hindu, 25% are Muslim, and 24% are Christian. The experience of apartheid and participation in the anti-apartheid struggle brought South African Indians together. These bonds may now be threatened by the religious polarization that is sweeping through the global Indian diaspora, fueled by rising Hindu nationalism and anti-minority violence in India.

How are South African Indians reacting to divisive attitudes coming from India? Have the Modi government's efforts to cultivate support from the Indian diaspora made an impact in South Africa?

Featuring perspectives from community members, religious leaders, peacebuilding activists, and scholars, journalist Nikhil Mandalaparthy will provide a nuanced understanding of political and religious tensions within Africa’s largest Indian community.