​7 historic cities across the world that have deep links to India

India's links with the world go back centuries, shaped by trade, migration and the movement of people across the Indian Ocean. From the Gulf and East Africa to Southeast Asia and the Indian Ocean islands, several cities still carry traces of these connections. This Independence Day, here are seven cities whose history is closely linked with India.(Image generated using AI)

Muscat has been part of the maritime trade network connecting India with the Arabian Peninsula for centuries. Indian merchants travelled to Oman and some families established roots there generations ago. Historical records document the presence of Indian merchant families in Oman. The Gujarati community also established a Shiva temple in Muscat more than a century ago. The city remains a reminder of the long commercial and cultural links between India and Oman.

Zanzibar has been connected with India's western coast through Indian Ocean trade for centuries. Merchants from Gujarat and other parts of western India travelled to East Africa for business. The Indian community expanded during the 19th century as Zanzibar became an important centre of trade. Indian merchants became involved in commerce, finance and other activities. The city's history still reflects the long trading links between India and East Africa.

Mombasa was an important port along the Indian Ocean trade network and maintained links with merchants from India. Traders from Gujarat and other parts of the subcontinent became part of the city's commercial history. Indian merchants travelled to the East African coast for trade and later established communities there. Mombasa's history reflects the movement of goods and people between India's western coast and East Africa. The city remains an important part of that maritime story.

George Town developed into an important trading centre after the British established Penang as a settlement in 1786. Indian traders, workers and other migrants became part of the city's development. Indian migration increased during the 19th century as workers were recruited for plantations and other economic activities. Over time, Indian communities became established in the city. George Town's neighbourhoods, food and cultural traditions still reflect this history.

Indians were among the early migrant groups to arrive in Singapore after the British established the settlement in 1819. Indian soldiers, traders, workers and administrators became part of the city's early development. Indian workers were also involved in building roads, bridges and other infrastructure. Traders and businessmen established themselves in the growing port city. Areas such as Little India continue to reflect Singapore's long Indian connection.

Port Louis played a major role in the history of Indian migration to Mauritius. Between 1834 and 1920, nearly half a million indentured labourers arrived from India through Aapravasi Ghat in the city. Many were taken to work on sugar plantations in Mauritius, while others travelled onwards to different destinations. The migration had a lasting impact on Mauritius's population and society. Aapravasi Ghat remains a major reminder of this chapter in India's overseas history.

Durban became an important centre in the history of Indians in South Africa after the arrival of the first indentured Indian workers in 1860. They were brought from India to work on sugar plantations in Natal. Many later remained in South Africa, while Indian traders and other migrants also established communities. Durban became a major centre of the country's Indian population. The city is also linked to Mahatma Gandhi's years in South Africa, an important period in his political journey.