Exploring the Mighty India Through the Eyes of Gambian Students

India- A vast and diverse nation, a land of vibrant cultures, rich traditions, and diverse landscapes,
captivates the hearts of people from all walks of life. Among the many visitors to this mesmerizing
country are Gambian students, who bring their unique perspectives and experiences to their time spent
in India. Let us delve into their journey and discover what India means to those Gambian students who
have had the privilege of exploring the wonders of this captivating land.

One cannot help but notice the stark differences between Gambia and India when it comes to culture,
food, language, and even climate. Gambian students often find themselves in awe of India’s vastness
and its ability to embrace countless cultures within its borders. They marvel at the country’s
architectural wonders like the Taj Mahal, symbolizing love and beauty, or the ancient temples of
Varanasi, a sacred city on the banks of the Ganges River, The Statue of Unity, the beautiful beaches of
Goa, the beautiful snowfall in Kashmir and Manali amongst other adventure sites.

Food, undoubtedly an integral part of any culture, also plays a significant role in the experience of Gambian students in India. India’s cuisine also left an indelible mark on students.

Abdou Cham an Alumini of Parul University said, “ I have been familiar with local Gambian dishes such as domoda (a peanut stew) or the popular benachin (one-pot rice meal). I was often surprised by the diverse flavors and spices present in Indian cuisine. From the mouth-watering biryanis to the delectable street food, each dish tells a story of India’s culinary heritage”, he added. The Gambian students are eager to savor these unique flavors, expanding their gastronomic horizons.

Language barriers can pose a challenge for Gambian students, as they may not be familiar with the
multiple languages spoken in India. While English is often a medium of communication, the diverse
linguistic landscape can be overwhelming at times. However, they find solace in the warm and
welcoming nature of the Indian people, who make an effort to bridge the communication gap, even
going the extra mile to teach them a few local words and phrases.

The unique climate of India leaves an indelible impression on Gambian students. Gambia’s tropical
climate shares similarities with certain regions of India, but the country’s vastness brings forth varied
climatic conditions. From the blistering heat of Rajasthan to the chilly winters of Himachal Pradesh,
Gambian students experience the extremes of India’s weather patterns. Yet, they adapt to these
changes, appreciating the diversity that India brings to their everyday lives.

Socio-cultural activities provide Gambian students with an immersive experience of India’s rich heritage. Ebrima Bah, a student of BCA CHAROTRA UNIVERSITY says, “ We eagerly participate in festivals such as Diwali, Holi, Eid, or Christmas, embracing not only the celebrations but the cultural significance behind them ”. These experiences strengthen the bond between us Gambian students and our Indian counterparts “. Forging lasting friendships, that transcend borders Education is a significant aspect of the Gambian students’ journey in India. Many come to pursue higher studies in fields such as medicine, engineering, or business. Indian universities offer a world-class education, and the students are exposed to diverse academic perspectives. The exchange of knowledge and ideas between Indian and Gambian students fosters a global understanding, promoting cross-cultural learning.

As the time comes for Gambian students to bid India goodbye and return to their homeland, they carry
with them cherished memories, lifelong friendships, and a newfound understanding of India’s rich
tapestry of culture and traditions. Their time spent in India has not only shaped their academic pursuits
but has also broadened their horizons, enabling them to become ambassadors of cultural exchange
between the two nations.

India, seen through the eyes of Gambian students, is a country that captivates, challenges, and
ultimately transforms them. It becomes a tapestry woven with threads of diversity, warmth, and
boundless opportunities for growth. The perspective of Gambian students in India serves as a reminder
of India’s allure and the power of intercultural experiences to shape and enrich our lives in countless ways. The experiences shared by Gambian students underscore the importance of embracing
diversity, fostering unity, and appreciating the multifaceted wonders of our world.

People often get confused about how we know so much about India. These are just experiences of our own. We also conducted surveys with several locals and got to know the depth and insights of the rich culture. Hence,
concluding my article, living in India has been a rollercoaster ride of getting and experiencing different kinds of festivals and foods.

— By Momodu lamin Jallow, Department of Journalism Mass communication Parul University