Dar Es Salaam (Tanzania), 29 October (HS): The African continent is bestowed with a great, pristine nature . A glaring example of coexistence between nationals of different rays and cultures African countries are a travellers' paradise . Comprising of South Africa, West Africa and East Africa regions, the entire continent has pristine beaches, and unexplored forests.
East Africa in particular is one of the preferred destinations be it nature lovers or wildlife or adventure. Mount Kilimanjaro most certainly tops the list for thousands of Mountaineering enthusiasts and professional adventure sports lovers. Safari tours of Sarenghetti is not only a lifetime experience but also a reminder of the magnificent wild life that exists on the earth.
The ecosystem for tourism and professional life has been thriving and progressing over many centuries. A glaring example is the Cosmopolitan life that prevails in Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania.
Dar Es Salaam is a highly cosmopolitan city well connected by Air to nook and corner of the modern world. Home to many trade houses, multi multi-national business houses Dar Es Salaam also is home for several Diplomatic Missions. Obviously the needs of different nationals have changed the ecosystem of the city .
A glaring example is the vibrant Kisutu Street also known as Temple Street in the heart of the city . Temple Street is a testimony of not only the coexistence of the Indian diaspora with the local Tanzanian citizens but also the vibrant Indian diaspora . Hindu Culture and religion are represented by temple complexes housing Lord Ganesha, Durga , Lord Balaji, Lord Hanuman, and Shirdi Sai Baba .
Religious discourses, Sat Sangh, and rituals are conducted on the relevant days with devotion. One could visit any of these temples and take part in the activities. Hindu Council is the nodal body that integrates most of the Hindu religious Organisations in Tanzania and has been doing yeomen services not only to the Indian community but also maintains cordial relationship with the local Tanzanian administration.
Indian culinary diplomacy is at its best on the temple street . Fine dining restaurants like Chowpatty , Chappan Bhog, Swad, Tasty bites, Lime and Chilly have been serving the best of authentic tasty Indian delicacies to customers for many decades now. A walk down the street in the evening or at weekends one could meet an array of Indian nationals from different parts of India. And on festival days like Navarathri and Deepavali Temple Street looks like an extension of Indian Culture.
It's easy to identify oneself to be living and walking in Mini India. Dar Es Salaam thus, is certainly a home away from home for Indian diaspora in Tanzania.
Hindusthan Samachar / Manjunath Chavan
