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Across the world today, millions of people of Indian origin form one of the largest and most influential diasporas. India, with its civilisational history spanning more than 5,000 years, has always been a land of knowledge, culture, and exchange. Even in ancient times, India maintained links with distant lands through trade, religion, and art. Archaeological findings across Asia, Africa, and Europe confirm the far-reaching influence of India’s early interactions with the world.
Large-scale Indian migration began during the colonial era when thousands travelled to various British colonies to serve as administrators, soldiers, and indentured labourers. Many settled in Southeast Asia, the Caribbean, Africa, and the Pacific Islands, establishing the first Indian communities abroad. Despite hardships, they carried with them India’s values of hard work, faith, and family. Indian soldiers who served during the First and Second World Wars also settled in the countries where they were deployed, further expanding the global presence of Indians.
Today, the Indian diaspora evokes great pride. Across continents, Indians have contributed immensely to their adopted countries through their education, skills, and enterprise. The story of Indian migration is one of resilience and achievement — of people who succeeded abroad while remaining emotionally connected to their roots.
A major wave of migration to the United States began in the 1950s, when highly skilled professionals from India, doctors, scientists, engineers, and academics sought opportunities abroad. The liberalisation of U.S. immigration laws opened doors for thousands to pursue their ambitions. The IT revolution and the dot-com boom of the 1980s and 1990s brought another surge, with Indian engineers and entrepreneurs becoming key players in technology and innovation. Today, the U.S. is home to around four million people of Indian origin — one of the most prosperous, educated, and law-abiding communities in the country.
Indians abroad have excelled in every field from technology and medicine to politics and academia. More than half of all motels in the U.S. are owned by Indian-origin entrepreneurs. Thousands of Indian doctors serve in global health systems, and many academics of Indian descent teach at leading universities. Prominent figures like Sundar Pichai, Satya Nadella, and Kamala Harris reflect the growing leadership of the Indian diaspora worldwide.
Despite their success, the Indian diaspora maintains a strong emotional and cultural bond with India. The younger generations, born and raised overseas, continue to take pride in their heritage through language, cuisine, and festivals. Celebrations of Holi, Diwali, and Navratri across major world cities are not only expressions of culture but also bridges of friendship that promote inclusiveness and shared joy.
Over the past twelve years, India’s engagement with its diaspora has deepened significantly. The Government of India recognises the diaspora as a valuable national asset and a key partner in India’s growth story. Initiatives such as Pravasi Bharatiya Divas honour the achievements of overseas Indians, while programmes like the Know India Programme reconnect younger generations with their ancestral homeland. As India moves toward its vision of becoming a developed nation by 2047, marking 100 years of independence, it continues to seek the expertise, innovation, and goodwill of its global family. New Zealand, too, is home to a vibrant Indian community that plays an important role in the country’s social, economic, and cultural life. From Auckland to Wellington and Christchurch, Indian associations regularly organise cultural and charitable events that strengthen community ties. As Diwali approaches, the entire community prepares to celebrate the Festival of Lights with their Kiwi and other friends spreading warmth, harmony, and happiness.
The Consulate of India in Auckland continues to play a vital role in serving the diaspora. It has successfully delivered over 30,000 documents including passports, surrender certificates, OCI cards, and visas to applicants across New Zealand, reflecting India’s commitment to its overseas citizens.
The journey of the Indian diaspora mirrors that of India itself resilient, forward-looking, and deeply rooted in values. As India rises on the global stage, its diaspora stands as a shining testament to the enduring spirit of a nation that continues to inspire the world. -by Dr Madan Mohan Sethi, Consul General of India in Auckland