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Samir Bhattacharya and Vishal Nirghen, Eds., Charting a Future for India-South Africa Relations in a Changing World Order, Observer Research Foundation, August 2025.
The 30th year of India and South Africa’s formal diplomatic ties is more than just a diplomatic milestone; it is a celebration of a resilient relationship, built upon shared histories, common values, and forward-looking visions. In 2019, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa became the second South African leader after Nelson Mandela to grace India’s Republic Day as chief guest—a demonstration of the close ties between the two nations.
Indeed, India and South Africa are more than just strategic allies, as they are bound by the thread of colonial legacy. There are other countries in the world that arguably also share a historical symmetry. Perhaps what makes the story of India and South Africa more unique is the role of two towering individuals—Mahatma Gandhi and Nelson Mandela—both of them iconic figures in global history whose lives are intricately woven together. It was in South Africa where Gandhi began his journey of non-violence, and Mandela always regarded Gandhi as an inspiration in his people’s fight against apartheid. While both are gone—Gandhi for many decades now and Mandela, for over a decade—their legacies continue to influence global campaigns for the preservation of justice, democracy, and equality.
It is this historical legacy that has shaped the contemporary trajectory of India and South Africa’s bilateral engagement. Trade and investment today form the backbone of this burgeoning partnership. South Africa is the largest economy in Africa, with a GDP of over US$403 billion in 2024, while India has emerged as the fourth largest economy in the world. This economic complementarity creates fertile ground for bilateral cooperation.
Trade between the two countries has deep roots, dating back to the 12th century. Today, over 150 Indian companies operate across diverse sectors in South Africa with an investment of approximately US$9 billion. From pharmaceuticals and IT to automobiles and mining, Indian firms like Tata, Cipla, Tech Mahindra, and Wipro are notable players in South Africa, employing over 18,000 South Africans. With advanced financial systems, mature sectors, and an international outlook, South Africa offers Indian companies a strategic gateway into the African continent.
Meanwhile, South African companies have also influenced India’s growth story. Notably, the South African tech conglomerate Naspers has made substantial investments in Indian digital platforms. The Airports Company South Africa played a pivotal role in developing Mumbai International Airport, a lesser-known yet significant contribution that reflects the potential of collaboration in infrastructure.
Beyond political and economic relations, the India-South Africa partnership thrives on cultural resonance and people-to-people connections. Durban, South Africa’s third largest city, is home to one of the largest Indian diasporic communities. From clothing and cuisine to festivals, music, and dance, the city reflects a vibrant fusion of Indian and African cultures.
Food is another important bridge between the two countries. South Africa’s famed Bunny Chow, a curry-filled bread loaf, has Indian origins dating back to when indentured labourers worked in the country in the 19th century. Over time, the dish has become a symbol of the unique Indo-South African blend.
The love for cricket adds yet another dimension to this multifaceted relationship. Cricket is the most popular sport in India, and Indian fans have always admired the South African cricket team. There is hardly any Indian child in the 1990s who did not dream of “flying” like Jonty Rhodes. After the end of apartheid, India was the first country to invite South Africa for an international cricket series. In turn, South Africa welcomed India for their first Test series in 1992—a gesture symbolising mutual respect and goodwill. Since then, the sport has brought millions together, with iconic moments like Yuvraj Singh’s six sixes at Kingsmead Stadium etched in collective memory. Cricket has served as both a diplomatic tool and a cultural celebration, uniting fans across borders.
Despite such a rich tapestry of history, trade, culture, and diplomacy, there has been a surprising absence of a comprehensive work encompassing the entirety of India-South Africa relations. This report, jointly curated by the Observer Research Foundation and the South African High Commission, aims to fill the gap, making it both timely and necessary.
The publication offers an exploration of the evolving India-South Africa partnership by bringing together scholars, policy experts, and practitioners from both countries. The articles document past achievements and outline a blueprint for future collaboration in areas like trade, technology, culture, and cooperation at the global level.
I want to thank all the contributing authors for being part of this project to chronicle the India-South Africa story. My gratitude to Samir Bhattacharya, who led this project and to Vishal Nirghen, First Secretary, South African High Commission, who graciously agreed to co-edit the volume. My special thanks to H.E. Amb. Anil Sooklal, High Commissioner of South Africa to India, for his support and encouragement. It is our hope that this project can inspire other scholars and practitioners to engage with this subject more deeply and contribute to an ever-deepening India-South Africa engagement.
Read the report here.
Prof Harsh V Pant is Vice-President, Studies and Foreign Policy, Observer Research Foundation.
The views expressed above belong to the author(s). ORF research and analyses now available on Telegram! Click here to access our curated content — blogs, longforms and interviews.
Dr. Samir Bhattacharya is an Associate Fellow at Observer Research Foundation (ORF), where he works on geopolitics with particular reference to Africa in the changing ...
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Vishal Nirghen is First Secretary (Political), South African High Commission, New Delhi. ...
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