Fatima Rajina

Fatima Rajina, a Senior Legacy in Action Research Fellow, discusses the evolving dress norms among British Bangladeshi Muslim men, particularly the thobe's role in shaping a universal Muslim identity. Teleica Kirkland, a Lecturer at the London College of Fashion, reflects on the Windrush generation's deliberate fashion choices as a means of asserting dignity in British society. Their dialogue uncovers the complexities of identity, respectability politics, and how clothing serves as both a cultural expression and a vehicle for unity amidst societal scrutiny.

Fatima Rajina, a senior fellow at the Stephen Lawrence Research Centre, discusses her book on British Bangladeshi Muslims in the East End. She examines how factors like the global war on terror have reshaped men's sartorial choices and language use. Rajina highlights the historical and cultural significance of clothing, exploring its evolution from tradition to modern identity markers, particularly among younger generations. The conversation challenges mainstream narratives by showcasing the community's rich cultural expressions and the impact of imperial legacies.