1950s-60s

During the 1950s and 60s, some Asians came to Britain for work; others to study. Together they formed the labour force of industrial Britain, strengthening the professions, becoming entrepreneurs, and adding to the ranks of activists looking to forge a better world.

EXPLORE: Learn more about the life for Asian youth in the 1950s-60s

We have used the gathered stories and archival research to interrogate experiences of being young, Asian and different in Birmingham. Please explore further by reading the stories of those below.

Anita Bhalla

“…As we were growing up, it was kind of idyllic. We played in the streets a lot. There were no cars around…”

Asif Khan

“…My father used to be a wrestler. Then I used to be a wrestler. I was success over there…”

Dr Delwar Hussain

“…People got together, shouting against Enoch Powell about what he said about the immigrants….”

Ranjit Sondhi

“…When I first came England, I had no idea, no concept of the fact I was Indian…”

1950s-60s

Anita Bhalla

Asif Khan

Dr Delwar Hussain

Ranjit Sondhi

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