Happy Indians in Durban: The city bears a close emotional tie with India

Indian-origin populace in South Africa’s Durban uphold Gandhian philosophy of brotherhood and strive to lead a righteous life

REMEMBERING GANDHIJI’S TIME IN DURBAN
Region: Durban, South Africa
South Africans of Indian descent are an influential big community. The majority lives in and around the city of Durban, making it ‘The largest concentration of Indian residents in one city, outside of India’. Durban bears a close emotional tie with India as it was once home to the young barrister Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi ( Mahatma Gandhi) who stood up against apartheid and began a revolution against racial discrimination. There are many expat groups that are active here and Indians who migrate to Durban become a part of it to stay connected to Indian roots. Cuisine is another reminder of desi tastebuds. Take a bite of the popular ‘Bunny Chow’ (Bread filled with gravy broad beans). This dish came into existence, thanks to the Indian trading community who missed their staple roti and then innovated it into this dish, which could stay fresh for longer hours.


TURNING HEADS: Fashion is a big ticket with the people of Durban. Many Indian-origin designers make a fine living with their festive collections. Social life is often buzzing with India-inspired fests.

POPULAR INDIAN FESTS AND FESTIVALS
Holi, Kavadi and Diwali