7 Ways South Asian Culture Has Influenced British Life

South Asian culture has influenced British life in numerous ways over centuries, including through trade, British colonisation and immigration.

British South Asians whose families come from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka have been an integral part of British society and have helped make the Britain of today.

The impact of South Asian culture and contributions to British life span generations, reshaping the UK’s cultural, social, and economic fabric.

From food and fashion to literature and business, South Asian culture has left an indelible mark on everyday British life.

DESIblitz explores seven ways South Asian culture and communities have influenced and helped shape British life.

Transforming British Cuisine

South Asian cuisine has redefined British dining habits, making spices like turmeric and cumin kitchen staples.

Naan and parathas influenced British bread culture, adding variety to everyday meals.

Curry houses and takeaways can be found on every high street and are at the heart of every community in the UK.

Dishes such as chicken tikka masala, often dubbed Britain’s “national dish”, highlight this culinary integration.

Restaurants serving Indian, Pakistani, and Bangladeshi cuisines flourish.

Indian curry houses especially dominate high streets, offering everything from authentic biryanis to modern fusion dishes.

The popularity of South Asian food festivals, like the London Curry Festival, reflects the nation’s appetite for these flavours.

Moreover, the British curry industry generates over £4 billion annually and employs more than 100,000 people.

Thus, South Asian culture has profoundly impacted British cuisine and made an invaluable long-term contribution to the economy.

Impact on the British Business Landscape

The Desi cultural focus on hard work has left a lasting impression on the landscape of British business.

Family-owned businesses, such as corner shops, restaurants and textiles, have long been community staples and are vital to British life.

South Asians have established themselves as successful entrepreneurs, driving innovation in the retail, food, technology, and hospitality sectors, among other sectors.

The late Lord Gulam Noon, known as the “Curry King”, revolutionised the ready-meal industry with his Noon Products. He popularised Bombay Mix and commercialised chicken tikka masala.

Today, South Asians are leaders in global businesses, reflecting their significant contributions.

Dr Amrit Singh, a leading economist, stated: “South Asian businesses have significantly contributed to the UK’s GDP [Gross Domestic Product].

“Their success is not just a reflection of their hard work but also their ability to adapt and innovate.”

Such contributions create jobs, stimulate local economies, and inspire future generations.

Businesses founded by British Asians, like Pak Supermarket and Taj Stores, have also helped the economy. The Desi entrepreneurial spirit is often attributed to cultural values emphasising hard work, education, and resilience.

Influence on British Literature

South Asian culture has profoundly influenced British literature, creating a unique blend of narratives, themes, and perspectives. Such influence can be traced back to the 18th century and earlier.

Writers of South Asian heritage have redefined British literary traditions, addressing issues such as identity, migration, and multiculturalism.

Authors of poetry, nonfiction and fiction have added a rich layer to British literature and brought fresh perspectives.

Writers like Salman Rushdie, Monica Ali, and Nikesh Shukla explore themes of migration, identity, and generational divides.

Books like Brick Lane and The Satanic Verses have sparked global discussions about cultural integration and the immigrant experience.

British South Asian writers often bridge literary traditions, blending storytelling techniques.

For instance, the incorporation of oral storytelling enriches modern British fiction. This blending makes British literature more inclusive and diverse.

Events like the DESIblitz Literature Festival annually showcase the importance and richness of British South Asians in literature.

Overall, South Asian culture has deeply influenced British literature and continues to help define British literary identity nationally and globally.

South Asian Influence on Music

South Asian culture has shaped Britain’s music scene, blending traditional sounds with contemporary genres.

For instance, in the 1980s, Bhangra music had a significant impact. It evolved into a powerful medium through which the youth could explore and engage with issues of identity, inequality, belonging, and culture.

Bhangra music became deeply integrated into British life, enriching the cultural tapestry of Britain through its influence and fusion.

British Asian artists such as Apache Indian, Asian Dub Foundation, Panjabi MC, Jay Sean, and M.I.A have significantly influenced British music and introduced it to a worldwide audience.

One of the first significant sparks of rap music in the UK can be traced back to Apache Indian’s 1993 hit ‘Boom Shack A Lack’. The song blended reggae, rap, and garage elements to forge a new sound.

British South Asian DJs and producers have also driven the popularity of fusion genres, combining South Asian rhythms with electronic and hip-hop elements.

These contributions enrich Britain’s musical diversity, making it a global hub for innovative soundscapes.

South Asian Influence on British Fashion

South Asian textiles have shaped British fashion and dress for centuries.

Desi clothing, such as sarees, lehengas, kurtas, and salwar kameez, has inspired British fashion with bold patterns and luxurious fabrics.

Designers often incorporate embroidery, beading, and draping techniques into contemporary outfits.

South Asian fashion has inspired British designers, online and high-street brands, and Western fashion.

British Asian talent like Ashish Gupta blends heritage fabrics with modern silhouettes.

Gupta has shown his collections at London Fashion Week since 2005 and has been recognised with accolades like the British Fashion Council’s New Generation Award.

Moreover, Asian bridal fashion has significantly influenced the UK’s multi-billion-pound wedding industry.

Intricate embroidery, vibrant colours, and bold patterns from South Asian cultures are now staples in seasonal trends, emphasising the fusion of cultures.

Influence on British Beauty Practices and Routines

South Asian culture has had a lasting impact on beauty routines in Britain. Its influence is visible in everyday practices and industry trends, from natural remedies to traditional techniques.

Turmeric, known for its anti-inflammatory properties, has inspired skincare products like face masks and serums.

Rose water, a natural toner, is widely appreciated for its soothing qualities.

Henna and threading, two ancient practices, have become common in Britain. Once reserved for celebrations, Henna is now used as temporary body art and a natural hair dye.

Threading, a precise hair removal technique, has become popular for shaping eyebrows and removing facial hair. These practices are valued for their effectiveness and affordability.

South Asian culture has significantly enriched British beauty practices. Its natural remedies, ancient techniques, and wellness philosophies continue to shape personal routines and industry innovations.

Influence of Ayurvedic Medicine on British Life

Ayurveda is a South Asian holistic wellness system of medicine focused on helping people live long and healthy lives.

It has gained popularity in Britain and has become a key part of daily British life for many.

Wellness centres and yoga studios integrate ancient practices into modern health routines.

Turmeric lattes, ashwagandha supplements, and herbal remedies are now common in British homes. These practices promote holistic health, focusing on balance and mindfulness.

The rise of Ayurveda reflects Britain’s embrace of South Asian wellness philosophies, blending traditional wisdom with modern lifestyles.

Today, the influence of South Asian culture is evident across spheres of British life.

From the introduction of South Asian spices and textiles to British markets in the 17th century to the migration waves during and after British colonisation, South Asian culture has consistently contributed to Britain’s evolution.

Post-colonial migration deepened this influence as South Asians became integral to rebuilding Britain after World War Two.

South Asians brought both labour and cultural richness to British society, reshaping it.

From historic trade to modern contributions to arts, politics, and business, this impact highlights integration, fusion and cultural vibrancy.

The continued exchange and influence ensures that South Asian culture remains a cornerstone of Britain’s identity and future.

The impact of South Asian culture on the very fabric of British life is not just a tale of the past but a living, growing narrative of influence, integration, evolution and enrichment.