Preserving Roots Abroad: The Girmitiyas’ Role in Indian Soft Power

Girmitiyas, who lived thousands of miles apart and were ardent advocates of Indian culture, have a unique personality today. Girmitiyas is a vital part of India’s soft power and has substantially improved India’s standing abroad. Even communities in the Indo-Caribbean, Indo-Mauritius, Indo-African, Indo-Fijian, and Indo-Malaysian regions have grown as a result of the continued presence of the Indian diaspora; several of these people are among the largest ethnic groups in some countries. Philanthropy, information exchanges, investments in innovation, and support for development projects have all contributed to the diaspora’s ability to make an impact on both their host countries and India. The diaspora deserves praise for their perseverance and commitment, which allowed them to hold the highest state and government positions in the Girmitiya countries, play a crucial role, and oversee successful companies and other endeavours. When discussing India’s soft power, it is important to emphasise the importance of the Indian diaspora community, particularly the Girmit group, since they were the main guardians of Indian culture and religion in the host nation. As a result, this chapter looks at the history of the Girmitiyas and then how they contribute significantly to the preservation of Indian culture in the host country.