ABSTRACT
This chapter includes a discussion of the challenges faced by the Africans in constructing a distinct identity in a new and different environment, both as individuals and collectively. The challenges include cultural retention, forging of new identities and encountering, sometimes, hostile local cultures. The chapter discusses their encounters with discrimination, prejudice and racism in the hierarchically structured, caste-dominated and colour-conscious society of India. The chapter gives examples of the popular stereotypes, misconceptions and misrepresentations of the Sidi culture in the mainstream Indian society. The chapter also provides an analysis of the portrayal of the Sidis in Gujarati literature. It concludes with the recent efforts by the Sidi communities to gain greater rights and their emergent consciousness of their Pan-African ties and identity.
