The Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) mode and El Niqo/Southern Oscillation (ENSO) exhibit a substantial correlation during boreal autumn. Although they are separate phenomena, coupling occurs under certain conditions. This study reveals that ENSO-related variability extends into the Indian Ocean, led by a developed South Indian Ocean (SIO) anticyclone, during periods of low solar (LS) activity. During periods of high solar (HS) activity, anomalous sea surface temperatures are confined to the Pacific with little amplification of the anticyclone in the South Indian Ocean. The direct cause of the difference in the SIO anticyclone arises from a shift in the location of the descending branch of the anomalous Walker circulation. This may be attributable to a change in the background Indian Ocean monsoon circulation which can be modulated by changes in solar irradiance.