South African Indians are a diverse community primarily descended from indentured laborers and traders who arrived in South Africa during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Many came from the Indian subcontinent, particularly from regions like Gujarat and Tamil Nadu, to work in the sugarcane fields of Natal and to engage in commerce. Today, South African Indians contribute significantly to the country's cultural, economic, and political landscape. They have established vibrant communities, particularly in cities like Durban and Johannesburg, and have played key roles in various sectors, including business, education, and the arts.