Little-known Little Indias around the world

Home away from home for Indian visitors & diaspora

Little Indias, or neighbourhoods populated by Indian-origin people, around the world offer vibrant pockets of Indian culture far from the subcontinent. From bustling markets and colourful festivals to authentic cuisine and community spirit, these neighbourhoods celebrate the rich traditions and heritage of India and its diaspora.

Across the globe, vibrant neighbourhoods have blossomed where the sights, sounds, and flavours of India come alive, offering a sense of home to the diaspora and a fascinating experience for visitors.

While London’s Southall and New York’s Jackson Heights are perhaps the most famous “Little Indias” in the West, there are many other cities with thriving communities that celebrate Indian heritage.

From the warm shores of South Africa to the neon-lit streets of Tokyo, these Little Indias are lively centres of community life, where generations come together to preserve their traditions.

Brickfields, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Kuala Lumpur’s Little India is a vibrant district that has welcomed generations of Indians, Sri Lankans and Bangladeshis who started establishing themselves in the region in 1980s. The area is famous for its colourful streets, authentic Indian restaurants, and traditional shops selling everything from spices to saris. The road, just about 200 m long is home to many vendors and restaurants and street food.

Festivals like Deepavali and Thaipusam are celebrated with great enthusiasm, drawing visitors from across the city to join in the festivities.

Dandenong, Melbourne, Australia

Dandenong is known for its thriving Little India, established in the early 2000s is a lively suburb where Indian culture is prominent. The area is packed with Indian grocery stores, restaurants, and hosts cultural events throughout the year, making it a hub for the local Indian community and a popular destination for those seeking authentic Indian experiences.

The precinct in Dandenong, Melbourne, spans approximately two city blocks along Foster Street, adjacent to the Dandenong Railway Station.

Nishi-Kasai, Tokyo, Japan

Nishi-Kasai, a suburb in Tokyo, is often referred to as “Little India” due to its large and vibrant Indian community. The area is home to many Indian restaurants, shops and cultural events, and is a popular destination for both Indians living in Japan and visitors interested in Indian culture.

The lively streets of Nishi-Kasai, dating back to 1979, offer a unique blend of Japanese and Indian traditions. The suburb is estimated to be home to around 3,000 Indian people.

KGrey Street, Durban, South Africa

Durban’s Little India is centred around Grey Street, now called Dr Yusuf Dadoo Street. The city is home to one of the largest and most historic Indian communities outside India, with roots dating back to the late 19th century when indentured labourers arrived to work in sugar plantations.

Today, the streets in the area, approximately about measuring about 1 sqkm, are renowned for their rich Indian heritage, bustling markets and lively festivals.

Each of these places offers a unique window into the rich and diverse world of Indian culture abroad, serving as important cultural and social hubs for the South Asian diaspora.