AFRICA DIARY
MOST INDOPHILE IN
FRANCOPHONE AFRICA
BY AMBASSADOR V.B. SONI*
I
ndia’s relations with Africa have been traditionally
warm, friendly and multi-dimensional, refl ecting the
centuries-old socio-cultural and economic ties. Rooted
deeply in history, they now cover virtually all fi elds of human
endeavour and enjoy regional and international signifi cance.
African countries fought their battles for independence
from their colonial masters mostly individually. India was
always in the forefront vigorously espousing their cause
on the international scene, hastening the decolonisation
process. African nations are beholden to India for providing
moral and material support in their struggles. In the fi ght
against apartheid and racism, again, India was the lone
voice raising the clarion call for decisive action. Most
countries acknowledge India’s contribution to gaining their
independence.
Eastern and Southern African countries, and India on
either side of the Indian Ocean forged direct links, helped
doubtlessly, with the presence of large population of Indians
and persons of Indian origin resulting in a lot more interaction
in various fi elds. The countries on the West coast of Africa
like Senegal, separated by a huge land mass across the African
continent, mostly French or Portuguese speaking, do not share
similar backgrounds and exchanges also because of a much
smaller Indian community.
Senegal is often described as the most Indophile of West
African nations. It has been infl uenced by many privately run
Indian cultural institutions, ranging from Hindi cinema to
the concept of caste and outcasts. There are dozens of Indo-
Senegalese friendship societies and fi lm clubs. Indian music
is highly popular in the country as are Bollywood movies and
dances and Indian television serials. The Senegalese singer
Akon, who sings in Hindi as well, became a sensation in India
for his rendition of Chhammak Chhallo in the Bollywood
Shah Rukh Khan movie Ra-One.
My direct contact with Senegal started under fortuitous
circumstances in the early 1990s. A general impression
prevails that diplomats/Ambassadors lead a cushy and
glamorous life. They work in exotic places, attend lavish
parties, enjoy diplomatic immunity and get duty free
privileges. Protocol, alcohol and glib talk is all that they
do. Don’t be carried away by this false image. There is a
fl ip side to it.
Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Diplomatist • Vol 7 • Issue 4 • April-May 2019, Noida • 73