Empire 17. Rishi Sunak's Ancestry: Indians in East Africa
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Nov 15, 2022 Mahmood Mamdani, a renowned professor and author with expertise in the East African Indian diaspora, delves into the complex history of Indians in East Africa. He discusses their migration journeys, especially during Idi Amin's regime, and how these experiences shaped identity and community in the UK today. The conversation highlights the socio-economic struggles faced by immigrants and the significant impact of historical events on contemporary political figures like Rishi Sunak. Personal anecdotes and colonial narratives enrich the viewers’ understanding of this multicultural legacy.
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Diyas on Downing Street
- Rishi Sunak, the UK Prime Minister, placed diyas on the steps of 10 Downing Street.
- This symbolic act is significant for Asians in Britain, marking a milestone in representation.
Sunak's Heritage
- Rishi Sunak's heritage has sparked celebration in multiple countries, including India, despite his faint connection to the country.
- While he is Hindu, his familial ties are primarily to Gujaranwala, Pakistan, with one grandparent having briefly lived in Delhi.
Sunak's Family History
- Research reveals that Rishi Sunak's paternal grandparents moved to Nairobi before the partition of India.
- His maternal grandfather, a railway engineer, married a Tanzanian-born woman in an arranged marriage when he was 16.
