Is He African or South Asian?

This 26 inch tall metal figurine was presented to Betty Lynn as a "Thank You" gift from her Drumming Circle at the United Church of Canada headquarters in Toronto where she worked from 2007 until 2012. Because it was a gift, we have no idea where it was found or where it comes from. Some suggest it is from Africa while others, myself included, tend to think of it as of Indian origin. Any ideas?

But, no matter what, it is is still an intriguing piece because unlike so many of our frame drummers, this figure would appear to be male. The following picture will give you a better idea of his height and interesting proportions.