Shiksha Arora on Kenyan Indian Identity and Belonging

“In India, you go, you’re told you don’t belong there. In Kenya, you’re being told you’re not Kenyan enough… so what am I?” That question, shared by media personality, content creator, and dancer Shiksha Arora, reflects a lived reality for many Kenyans of Indian descent. Speaking during an appearance on the

A Community Rooted in History

Kenyan Indians trace their presence in East Africa to the late 19th century, when thousands arrived to work on the construction of the Uganda Railway under British colonial rule. Many stayed on, building businesses and raising families across the country.

Today, the Asian community in Kenya is estimated at about 50,000 people. In 2017, they were officially recognised as Kenya’s 44th tribe, a move aimed at affirming their place within the national identity.

Yet, despite official recognition and community growth, questions around belonging remain for many.

“Kenyan Indians should not be called Kenyan Indians… We are Kenyan 🇰🇪.” — Shiksha Arora

Speaking Out on Identity

On the Mic Cheque Podcast, Shiksha described the tension of being seen as an outsider in both spaces tied to her heritage.

In India, she said, there is often an assumption that she does not fully belong. In Kenya, similar questions arise about whether she is “Kenyan enough”.

Her experience echoes that of many young people raised between cultures, where identity is shaped by both heritage and environment.

A Wider Conversation

Shiksha’s reflections connect to a broader discussion about race and identity among Kenyans at home and abroad.

Online comedienne Elsa Majimbo recently shared how she faced racism in the United States. While noting that such incidents have been rare in her experience, she recalled one encounter in Malibu after ordering a cab.

“Proof to me it's you… " You have to show me your phone,” the driver told her after keeping the car door locked.

She added that living in diverse areas like Los Angeles, West Hollywood, and Beverly Hills has limited her exposure to such incidents, even as she acknowledged that racism exists.

Content creator Natalie Tewa also spoke about her experience abroad, describing what she termed “silent racism” during her studies in the UK.

“They are not outright, but they are silent,” she said, recalling moments when classmates were surprised she spoke fluent English as an African.