A Mini Africa right in heart of city

Hyderabad: Paramount Hill Colony which is adjacent to Jubilee Hills reminds one of a mini Africa as a large number of Africans reside here. One can get a feeling of living in Africa when one steps into the area. Africans are arriving in the city for treatment and higher studies as the services here are cheaper when compared to Africa.Africans are known for their unique lifestyles. They have a special place in world history. They are spread across the world. 

It is known that Hyderabad ranks third in medical tourism after Mumbai and Chennai. City has a number of world-class hospitals. Hyderabad has become African’s favourite destination after air services increased.Africans prefer to come Hyderabad as quality education is accessible to them at affordable prices. Several countries in Africa are reeling under poverty; education and medicine are very costly due to which middle-class people are opting the city.

Africans have been living in the area for decades. Their culture is visibly evident in the area. Food courts and restaurants, too, offer African dishes. Business establishments are also catering to the needs of the community. Cost of living is cheaper compared to other areas in the city, they say.
It is learned that there is another reason for Africans to select Hyderabad. As most of them follow Islam, they do not find it difficult to offer Namaz as the city has a number of mosques.

Speaking to the Hans India, a few Africans said they respect the Indian culture, especially Hyderabad culture. They said people of the city are friendly and added that they feel as if it is their own country. Isa from Chad said he is pursuing his engineering degree in Osmania University and residing in the colony along with his friends. He said he likes Hyderabad culture very much.

Robert, hailing from Cameroon, said every African likes to reside here and they are happy with the hospitality of the locals. They never had any issues with the locals as everyone is busy with their own life, he observed.Some people are residing in the area along with their families and a few are working in private organisations for their survival. On the other side, it is matter of concern to them that a few Africans are indulging in illegal activities due to which innocent Africans have to face problems.

   -PB Pavan Kumar