India and Africa ‘united’

THOUGH India and Africa are different, they are not so completely different as to disallow an interchange of goods, material and technology. This interchange has occurred throughout the centuries and points to the underlying unity of the human mind.

India, which is in a sense a representative of the Asiatic consciousness, has never been isolated from the African continent in spite of geographical, linguistic, and racial barriers.

Its influence or connection with Africa has been significant. We cannot speak of India as of Europe, as its civilisation, and that of Africa is still in progress.

Both India and Africa are passing through a new renaissance due to the process of decolonisation and attainment of freedom. For the first time in the history of the world the unity of Africa and India has dawned on us. Whether we like it or not. India and Africa have come together and can no more part.

The spatial nearness is preparing the way for a spiritual approximation and interchange of goods, treasures of mind and imagination.

If we are nurtured only on Africa or India, we are not cultivated.

If we are preoccupied with either Indian or African thought, we must fortify our inner life with dignity of a more perfect and universal experience.

An understanding of each other’s cultures is essential.

DR SEARS APPALSAMY

eMkhomazi