As an introduction to the special issue, this essay covers a range of topics - from Mazrui's historic essay on Gandhi and Nehru to Rumi and Wordsworth's universal optimism and the role of education and technology in globalization. The historic and cultural relationship between Africa and India is examined, where several important themes are discussed: 1) the emphasis on human rights and social justice; 2) building sustainable development through literacy, education, tech-transfer, and cultural exchange; 3) journeys of loss and redemption between Africa, India and the West; and 4) the historic India-Africa summits. As an introduction to the special issue, this essay covers a range of topics - from Mazrui's historic essay on Gandhi and Nehru to Rumi and Wordsworth's universal optimism and the role of education and technology in globalization. The historic and cultural relationship between Africa and India is examined, where several important themes are discussed: 1) the emphasis on human rights and social justice; 2) building sustainable development through literacy, education, tech-transfer, and cultural exchange; 3) journeys of loss and redemption between Africa, India and the West; and 4) the historic India-Africa summits.