I am a legal alien … I am an Indian in Cape Town
Being a KwaZulu-Natal Indian in Cape Town isn't always easy.
From King Shaka to Cape Town International, from Umhlanga to Athlone, this is what to expect as an Indian in Cape Town.
Being a KwaZulu-Natal Indian in Cape Town isn’t always easy.
Firstly, there’s a bit of a language barrier. A thick Capetonian accent and a heavy Indian accent having a chat don’t make for the easiest of conversations.
There could be sniggering from both sides as either party do not really understand the other. Then there’s the issue of food.
As an Indian, don’t be fooled by a sign that says curry. The Cape Town idea of curry and the real charou version is very different. The charou version involves more masala and chillies and results in more panting, sweating and burning bums.
Another noticeable difference is the dental features. When in KZN, expect to see gold teeth. When in the Western Cape, expect to see no teeth. Indians in KZN invented bling and are always eager to get some gold in their mouths.
Capetonian residents are most noticeable for having no front teeth. One of the hardest parts of being an Indian in Cape Town are common misconceptions. All Capetonians assume that an Indian from KZN must be from Durban.
Explaining that there other towns where you could come from and where these towns are in relation to Durban, can be a tedious and fruitless procedure. There is some good about being an Indian in Cape Town though.
Capetonians are very friendly and welcoming of all those who visit the Mother City.
They’re very eager to learn more about Indians from KZN as if you come from a distant land or another planet. They are also eager to give you a tour of their beautiful city and treat you to all the sights, sounds, smells and delicacies it has to offer.
Being in a different land, with different Indians may seem daunting at first but it’s an experience not to be missed. It’s a chance to share stories and idea, to trade experiences and laugh at each others lifestyles, but most importantly, it’s a chance to confuse your hosts by saying things like ‘ayo what like that’ or ‘el, what kind fella don’t have front teeth.’
The second one may get you in trouble though. Whatever it is you do and wherever it is you go, enjoy the experience and don’t forget where you come from, the land of the tithar (hot) curry powder.
