British Asian facts for kids

British Asians are people who live in the United Kingdom and have British nationality, but their families originally came from South Asia. This region includes countries like Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and the Maldives.

According to the 2001 UK Census, there were about 2.33 million British Asians. This means they made up 4% of the total population of the United Kingdom at that time.

It's important to know that the term "British Asian" usually does not include people from East Asia. People from countries like China or Japan are called by their specific ethnic backgrounds, for example, British Chinese.

Who are British Asians?

British Asians are a diverse group of people. They share a connection to South Asia. Many of their families moved to the UK over several generations. They have become an important part of British society.

A Growing Community

The British Asian community has grown a lot over the years. They live in many parts of the UK. You can find large British Asian communities in cities like London, Birmingham, and Leicester. These communities often have their own shops, restaurants, and cultural centers.

Contributions to Britain

British Asians have made many important contributions to the UK. They have influenced different areas of life. These include business, politics, sports, and the arts.

Business and Economy

Many British Asians are successful in business. They run small shops and large companies. They help create jobs and boost the economy. You can find them in various industries. These include finance, technology, and healthcare.

Politics and Public Life

British Asians are also active in politics. Many serve as Members of Parliament (MPs). Others work in local government. They help make decisions that affect everyone in the UK. Their voices help represent the diverse population.

Sports and Entertainment

In sports, British Asian athletes have achieved great success. For example, Amir Khan is a famous boxer. Hammad Miah is a professional snooker player. In entertainment, artists like comedian Shazia Mirza are well-known. Dance groups like Signature have also gained fame. These individuals show the talent within the community.

Culture and Arts

British Asians have also enriched British culture. They bring new music, food, and traditions. Many musicians combine Eastern and Western styles. Festivals like Diwali and Eid al-Fitr are celebrated widely. These events add to the UK's vibrant cultural mix.

Images for kids

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  Members of the Asian community with the then prime minister David Cameron in 2014

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  British Asian professionals at a networking event in the City of London

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  The East London Mosque, is one of the largest mosques in Europe, and the biggest in the UK

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  Munshi I'tisam-ud-Din was the first South Asian to travel and live in Europe, and write about his experiences

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  Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi who studied in England played a pivotal role in leading the Indian independence movement

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  Shahidul Alam was one of the persons of the year selected by Time magazine in 2018

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  ArcelorMittal Orbit, London Olympic Park, designated by the Indian Anish Kapoor

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  Mohammed Salim, the first South Asian footballer to play for a foreign club. Due to playing in bare feet, he is having them bandaged by Jimmy McMenemy in 1936.

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  Amir Khan (left), with American boxer Paulie Malignaggi (right)

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  Hammad Miah is a professional snooker player of Bengali origin.

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  Shazia Mirza is a popular British comedian

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  The award-winning dance act Signature involved a British Pakistani and a British Indian

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  An Asian business leader showcasing his awards at the Grange Hotel in London

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  British Asian musicians combining Eastern and Western musical traditions

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  The Asian Professional Awards from left to right: Onkardeep Singh MBE; Jasvir Singh OBE; Sunny & Shay Grewal; Harry Virdee; Param Singh MBE