The evening unfolded with a quiet sense of history in the air, one that connected continents, struggles, and shared aspirations. On 23rd April 2026, the elegant halls of Taj Mahal Hotel, New Delhi, hosted a distinguished gathering to mark the 30th anniversary of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa. The reception brought together members of the diplomatic community in India, leaders from Indian industry, and long-standing friends of South Africa, reflecting the depth and warmth of bilateral ties.
At the heart of the evening was an address by H.E. Prof. Anil Sooklal, High Commissioner of South Africa to India, whose words carried both personal resonance and historical weight.
Opening with a warm “Sawubona and Namaskar,” he welcomed guests to what he described as a “very special occasion,” noting that the year marked not only “32 years of freedom in South Africa,” but also “30 years since the adoption of our Constitution”, a milestone celebrated under the theme Freedom and the Rule of Law: 30 Years of Democratic Citizenship.
In an address that seamlessly blended personal history with diplomatic reflection, the High Commissioner spoke of his own connection to India. “My own roots trace back to this country, while my identity is deeply anchored in South Africa and the African continent,” he shared, adding, “In many ways, I embody the enduring connection between India and Africa.”
This sense of shared history formed the core of his address. Tracing the journey of Indians who arrived in South Africa as indentured labourers in the 1860s, he reflected on their resilience and contribution: “Wherever Indians went, including South Africa, they contributed meaningfully and built resilient communities.”
He then moved to the political solidarity that has long defined India–South Africa relations. Highlighting India’s early and principled stand against apartheid, he noted that “in 1946, even before its own independence, India imposed trade sanctions against apartheid South Africa, becoming the first country to take such a stand and setting a global precedent.” He further acknowledged India’s consistent advocacy at the United Nations and its support to South Africans in exile.
Recalling the historic role of leaders such as Oliver Tambo and the enduring support extended by Jawaharlal Nehru, Indira Gandhi, and Rajiv Gandhi, the High Commissioner underscored the depth of political engagement between the two nations. He also reflected on the significance of Nelson Mandela’s visit to India in 1990, describing it as a gesture of gratitude for the unwavering solidarity extended during South Africa’s struggle.
The evening also highlighted the evolving economic partnership between the two countries. “Following the advent of democracy in 1994, Indian businesses were among the earliest to invest in South Africa,” he noted, adding that today “over 150 Indian companies operate in South Africa, contributing to our shared growth story.”
Yet, beyond policy and trade, it was the human dimension of the relationship that stood out. Referencing the presence of Jonty Rhodes, he remarked on the unifying power of sport: a reminder that connections between nations are often strengthened as much by shared passions as by shared policies.
Yet, beyond policy and trade, it was the human dimension of the relationship that stood out. The presence of Jonty Rhodes, one of South Africa’s most celebrated cricketers and a familiar figure in India, added a special resonance to the evening. Referencing him during his address, the High Commissioner underscored how sport continues to serve as a powerful bridge between nations. More than just a shared passion, cricket, often described as a common language between India and South Africa, has played a subtle yet significant role in deepening people-to-people connections and mutual goodwill.
Looking ahead, he extended an open invitation to Indian audiences as South Africa prepares to co-host the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup in 2027, expressing hope that “thousands of supporters from India” would travel to South Africa, further deepening people-to-people ties.
As the evening drew to a close, the High Commissioner returned to the central theme of the celebration, the enduring values of the South African Constitution. “As we celebrate 30 years of our Constitution, we reflect not only on how far we have come, but also on the values that guide us, democracy, equality, and the rule of law,” he said.
In a fitting conclusion, he acknowledged the role of India in South Africa’s journey: “Let me express our deep appreciation to the Government and people of India for your steadfast friendship and solidarity during our most difficult times—and for the strong partnership we continue to build today.”
“This is not just a partnership shaped by history,” he added, “it is one guided by a shared destiny.”
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