Ayub Ali Master

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[[Image:"_prefix,_and_no_enclosing_[[brackets|" prefix, and no enclosing thumb|left Ayub Ali Master (1879 – 26 April 1962) was a prominent British Indian businessman and community leader in the early 20th century. He is best known for his contributions to the welfare of the Bengali Muslim community in the East End of London. Ayub Ali Master was a pioneering figure in establishing the foundations for the Bangladeshi community in the United Kingdom, particularly through his efforts in social welfare, education, and immigration support.

Early Life

Ayub Ali Master was born in 1879 in the village of Sylhet, which was then part of British India and is now in Bangladesh. Little is known about his early life before he moved to the United Kingdom. Like many of his contemporaries from the Sylhet region, he migrated to the UK in search of better economic opportunities.

Career and Contributions

Upon arriving in the UK, Ayub Ali Master initially worked in various jobs, including as a seaman, which was a common occupation among early Bengali immigrants. However, he soon established himself as a successful businessman by opening one of the first Indian restaurants in London, the Shah Jalal Restaurant, in the early 20th century. This restaurant became a social hub for the Bengali community in London, serving not only as a place to eat but also as a meeting point for social and political discussions.

Beyond his business ventures, Ayub Ali Master was deeply involved in community service. He was a founding member of the Indian Seamen's Welfare League, which aimed to improve the living and working conditions of Indian seamen in the UK. His efforts extended to the broader welfare of the Bengali Muslim community, including support for new immigrants, advocacy for civil rights, and the promotion of education among the community's youth.

Political Activism

Ayub Ali Master was also active in politics, particularly in the context of the British Indian community's struggle for independence from British rule. He was a supporter of the All India Muslim League and played a role in mobilizing support among the diaspora in the UK for the cause of Pakistan's creation. His restaurant and other businesses served as venues for political meetings and discussions related to the independence movement.

Legacy

Ayub Ali Master's contributions to the Bengali Muslim community in the UK were significant. He is remembered as a pioneer who laid the groundwork for the vibrant Bangladeshi community that exists in the UK today. His efforts in community service, business, and political activism have left a lasting impact on the diaspora's development and integration into British society.

Ayub Ali Master passed away on 26 April 1962. His legacy continues to be celebrated by the British Bangladeshi community, and his life and work are a subject of study for those interested in the history of immigration and diaspora communities in the UK.

See Also

• British Indian
• Sylhet
• Bangladeshi community in the United Kingdom
• All India Muslim League

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