Indian Diaspora
The Indian diaspora in Russia finds its roots in the 19th and 20th centuries when labourers, traders, professionals, and students embarked on a journey to the British, French, Dutch, Dane, and Portuguese colonies across Asia, Africa, the Caribbean, and the Far East. The historical presence of Hindu traders in Moscow and St Petersburg as reported by Russian chroniclers in the 18th century marks the early threads of this transcontinental connection.
The legacy of Indian trade with Russia predates India’s independence, dating back to 400 years ago when the first Indian traders set foot in the Astrakhan region. Over the centuries, this trading community actively engaged with Russia, importing goods not only from India but also from Persia and central Asia. The diplomatic ties, forged between 1647 and 1695, laid the foundation for enduring connections even after the collapse of the Mughal Empire. The post-Soviet era brought a seismic shift in Russia’s industrial landscape, opening doors for international entrepreneurs. Amid the economic liberalization and privatization of the 1990s, Indian businesses found fertile ground. Despite challenges, these enterprises not only thrived but also became integral to local economies, providing jobs during challenging times.
Fast forward to the present, approximately 10,000 Indians have made Moscow their home, with a scattering across various regions, but it’s in St Petersburg and the capital where the Indian diaspora truly comes to life. One of the existing historical accounts notes that the Indo-Russian camaraderie, rooted in historical trade and diplomatic ties, persists, with around 30,000 Indians contributing to the diverse fabric of Russia, 15,000 of whom reside in Moscow.
India’s distinction as having the world’s largest diaspora is echoed in Russia, with an estimated 14,000 Indians, including 4,500 students, according to the UN’s World Emigration Report 2020, pursuing diverse fields such as medicine, business management, computer science, and engineering.
The economic landscape is shaped by approximately 500 Indian businessmen, with 200 based in Moscow. Sectors such as tea, coffee, rice, spices, textiles, IT, and pharmaceuticals see vibrant contributions from these entrepreneurs.
NRI Club in Russia
Vision
To be a leading hub for excellence in supporting and connecting Indians in Russia and facilitating the easy integration of Indians into Russia’s socio-cultural and economic systems.
Beyond Business:
Indians Making Cultural Strides in Russia
The Indian presence in Russia extends beyond business, with notable figures like Swati Reddy, an Indian film actress born in Vladivostok, and Abani Mukherji, a revolutionary and co-founder of the Communist Party of India.
As the Indian diaspora continues to evolve and intertwine with the rich history of Russia, these stories of resilience, success, and cultural exchange paint a compelling picture of a community that has not only found a home away from home but has also significantly enriched the multifaceted narrative of Indo-Russian relations.
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