British Indians

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British Indians are citizens or residents of the United Kingdom who trace their ancestry to India. This group forms a significant part of the British Asian community and has a rich history and cultural presence in the UK.

History

The history of British Indians dates back to the British Raj period when India was a part of the British Empire. The earliest Indian immigrants were Lascars, who were sailors employed by the British East India Company. Over time, the Indian community in the UK grew, especially after the Second World War and the Partition of India in 1947, which led to significant migration.

Demographics

According to the 2011 United Kingdom census, there were approximately 1.4 million people of Indian origin in the UK, making them one of the largest ethnic minority groups. The majority of British Indians are concentrated in major cities such as London, Birmingham, Leicester, and Manchester.

Culture

British Indians have contributed significantly to the cultural landscape of the UK. They have established a vibrant community with a rich cultural heritage, including festivals such as Diwali and Holi, and have made notable contributions to British cuisine, particularly through the popularity of Indian cuisine.

Religion

The British Indian community is religiously diverse, with significant populations of Hindus, Sikhs, Muslims, and Christians. Temples, gurdwaras, mosques, and churches serve as important cultural and religious centers for the community.

Economy

British Indians have made substantial contributions to the UK economy. They are well-represented in various sectors, including medicine, engineering, information technology, and business. Many British Indians have also established successful enterprises, contributing to the entrepreneurial landscape of the UK.

Politics

British Indians have been active in UK politics, with several individuals holding prominent positions in government. Notable British Indian politicians include Rishi Sunak, Priti Patel, and Keith Vaz.

Education

Education is highly valued within the British Indian community, and they have a strong presence in higher education institutions across the UK. British Indian students often excel academically and are well-represented in fields such as science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).

Notable British Indians

• Rishi Sunak - Prime Minister of the United Kingdom
• Priti Patel - Former Home Secretary
• Sadiq Khan - Mayor of London
• Zayn Malik - Singer and former member of One Direction

Related Pages

• British Asian
• British Pakistani
• British Bangladeshi
• British Sri Lankan
• British Chinese
• British African