With around 500,000 people from the Indian subcontinent living in London, the Asian-Indian community is the largest non-white minority ethnic group. The term ‘South Asian’ refers to peoples with ethnic origins from the Indian subcontinent. As well as India, this area is made up of countries like Bangladesh, Pakistan and Sri Lanka. There is a large community of Asian-Indian around Heathrow airport, as well as communities in South, East and North London.
Sheena Bose is a Bengali fashion photographer who lives in Muswell Hill, North London. Her parents moved from Kolkata to East London in the mid 60’s. Although Sheena was born in the UK, she is very closed – and proud – of her Indian roots. She gives her best tips to the New Londoners to enjoy a taste of India in London.
Eating
One of my favorite restaurants is Shakuni in Wembley. I really like it because it's a real a taste of India, even down to the décor. Anything from the menu is great but the buffet is a bargain. For something a little more up-market, I recommend Indali on Baker Street or Woodlands in Hampstead. Both are very good.
Events
Diwali of course! The ‘festival of lights’ is celebrated in a big way in London on Trafalgar Square with some music, dance and food. It is on Sunday 31 October this year. However, many Indians celebrate it at home as well.
As I'm Bengali, Durga Puga, that celebrates worship of the Hindu goddess Durga, is an important event for me. Any Indian celebration means vibrant colours, music and food with family and friends.
Shopping
The best place to buy Indian food is Wembley market, which takes place every Sunday. For clothes, I love Variety Silk House, in Wembley as well. There are many good music shops with a wide choice of Indian music – including all the latest hits – in Southall, West London.
Film
The Himalayan Palace in Southall, is the cinema which offers the closest experience to watching a Hindi film in India. It shows all the Bollywood Blockbusters.
Going out
I like to listen to classical Indian music at the Barbican and at the Royal Festival Hall. Both have excellent programmes. Southbank centre regularly host beautiful shows with traditional Indian dancers.
What else?
To get a real Indian experience, I recommend going to a traditional Indian religious ceremony. Ceremonies are regularly held at various venues around London.