Overview
This lecture covers the origins, history, demographics, culture, and current status of Anglo-Indian people—a minority community of mixed British and Indian ancestry primarily from the colonial era.
Definition and Origins
- Anglo-Indians are people of mixed British and Indian ancestry, historically British father and Indian mother.
- The term originally described Britons living in India, but later referred to mixed-heritage people.
- The community began after the British East India Company established itself in Madras in 1639.
- Early terms included "Eurasian" and "Indo-Briton".
Demographics and Distribution
- Estimated modern population: 125,000–150,000 in India (government) or up to 400,000 (association claims, 2023).
- Significant diaspora in the UK, Australia, Canada, US, Bangladesh, Myanmar, New Zealand, Malaysia, Singapore, and Pakistan.
- Population in India has declined since 1951 due to emigration.
Language, Religion, and Culture
- English is the mother tongue of most Anglo-Indians; Hindustani (Hindi/Urdu) and Indian languages are also spoken.
- Majority are Christians (Protestant/Catholic); minorities follow Hinduism, Islam, or Sikhism.
- Distinct Anglo-Indian culture includes cuisine, social clubs, dances, and Western musical influences.
Historical Roles and Social Status
- Anglo-Indians served in railways, postal services, customs, teaching, and as cultural intermediaries.
- Exclusion from high positions began in 1791; community often faced social isolation.
- The community had reserved seats in government (Lok Sabha and state assemblies) until 2020.
Identity, Migration, and Assimilation
- Many Anglo-Indians emigrated to the UK and Commonwealth countries post-1947 Indian independence.
- Historically urban, notably in cities like Kolkata, Chennai, Bangalore, Mumbai, Delhi, Hyderabad.
- Cultural resurgence includes international reunions and literature about the community.
Legal and Constitutional Status
- Indian Constitution defines Anglo-Indian as persons with male European ancestry domiciled in India.
- Government previously nominated Anglo-Indian representatives in parliament/state assemblies; this provision largely ended in 2020.
Similar Groups and Related Communities
- Related communities include Anglo-Burmese, Burghers (Sri Lanka), Indo people (Indonesia), Luso-Indians, and others.
- Not all persons of European-Indian descent are considered Anglo-Indian, e.g., from Portuguese colonies.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Anglo-Indian — Person of mixed British and Indian descent, usually with a British father and Indian mother.
- Eurasian — Older term for people of mixed European and Asian descent in colonial India.
- All India Anglo-Indian Association — Main organization representing Anglo-Indian interests.
- Lok Sabha — Lower house of India's Parliament.
- Diaspora — A community of people living outside their original homeland.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review the Indian Constitution's definition of Anglo-Indians (Article 366(2)).
- Read about similar mixed-heritage communities in other former colonies.
- Explore recent literature and media about Anglo-Indian culture and history.