How long has there been a connection between Gujarat and the Swahili Coast of East Africa? Were there trade and cultural links that might explain the presence of African (Siddhi) communities in Gujarat and the many Gujarati words in Swahili? Were the Europeans looking for a route around Africa to India the first ones to discover the monsoon connection?
These and many other intriguing questions have been examined in a brilliant historical novel written by debut Gujarati author Nitin Nanji. The publication of ‘Lalji’s Nairobi,’ releasing on 30th August on Amazon Books is an inspiring account of the life and times of Lalji, a nineteen-year-old who migrates from Gujarat to British East Africa to build a new life. A life away from the droughts and high taxes of the Raj.
Leading a group of four young men from his village, three Hindu and one Muslim, Lalji sets sail by Arab vaan (dhow) to reach Mombasa and then Nairobi by the newly completed Uganda Railway. Facing entrenched barriers and racism, Lalji uses his commercial acumen to work within the system and progress rapidly to achieve his ambitions and those of his friends. Poor business opportunities, war with German East Africa, and displacements of the local Africans by white settlers added to the uncertainty of the times.
The novel is full of information and challenges many historical cliches and assumptions. Equally enjoyable is the story and the intriguing characters brought to life by Nitin who was born in Kenya while it was a British colony and who has lived and worked in England all his life.
The story of success from rags-to-riches is not unfamiliar to the diaspora of Gujarati’s from East Africa. Lalji’s business successes, his marriage to his childhood fiancé Janki, and their management of a busy household evoke lively images of the times. His authentic depiction of European and African characters also adds a welcome addition, completing the picture of an energetic and dynamic society.
Nitin deals sensitively with the excesses of white privilege and domination of Indians and Africans in the new colony. He also illustrates the humanity and fairness of individuals such as Lalji’s English bank manager, who notices Lalji’s business strengths early and takes him under his wing.
Lalji’s character makes interesting reading. His discerning nature leads him to turn down an opportunity to get involved in politics but he accepts tacitly that his partner Bhasker provides essential assistance to an African political movement secretly.
From uncertain beginnings in Gujarat to seeking out success in a strange new world, Nitin’s words captivate the reader and take them on an enjoyable journey of early 20th century colonial India and Africa.
The meteoric success of Lalji, and his ability to circumvent a serious challenge from an unexpected quarter at his time of weakness, add an exciting episode at the end of this entertaining novel. A commendable read from all aspects.
On sale from Amazon Books from 30th August, paperback and eBook editions.
Please read the original review here