KAMLESH BAJAJ AND HER SOUTH ASIAN HERITAGE MONTH STORY OF HOPE
THE 2021 South Asian Heritage Month runs from July 18 to August 17.
The month-long celebration of south Asian history and culture is not complete without the pioneering stories of first-generation immigrants, who overcame incredible odds and went on inspiringly long journeys to the West, away from all they knew. Many of these stories are of everyday heroes like Kamlesh Bajaj, who passed away aged 84 earlier this year. Hers is a beautiful story that mirrors so many inspiring elders – which was told to Eastern Eye by her son Sushil Bajaj – of a journey from a small village to facing the horrors of Partition to laying the foundation for generations in the West.
Kamlesh Bajaj with her daughters
She was born, Kaushalaya Manuja, in Hanumangarh in undivided Punjab on October 22, 1937, to Chaudhary Sain Dass Manuja and Jind Vadi Manuja. She was the seventh of eight siblings and the youngest of the girls in a farming family. The spirited child insisted on going to school at a time when even a primary education was not common for girls in rural Punjab. Her deep desire was to be a doctor, but she was just given a rudimentary education. Sitting under a tree, slate in hand, the only girl in a classroom of boys acquired the basics of Hindi, Urdu, the English alphabet and a little arithmetic. She was not yet 10 years old when the family faced the horrors of Partition and had to move to India. After a period in refugee camps in the newly independent India, the family settled in the small village of Faridpur, which had no electricity, just had a handful of houses and was a long cart ride away from the nearest town. This sleepy little village would become home for almost 10 years and her entire world. She never imagined how far away from there her life’s journey would take her.
Kamlesh Bajaj with her husband Hari Chand Bajaj
On March 15, 1957, Kaushalaya married Hari Chand Bajaj. He was smitten from the very first time he secretly travelled to Faridpur to catch a glimpse of her, and in him she found the abiding love of her life. Soon after they married, Kaushalaya became Kamlesh. For more than 55 years they stood by each other through thick and thin.
The first film she saw with her husband was Naya Daur and a song from it, Sathi Hath Badhana became her life mantra. During their marriage, he would affectionately call her by many names, including Bhambiri, in recognition of her unflagging energy, but to her, he was always, Bajaj Saab. At the time of her marriage, Bajaj Saab was a constable in the Delhi police, and they set up their first home near Gol Dak-khana in New Delhi.
Kamlesh Bajaj with her children
In 1959, he was presented with the opportunity to move to England to work in the security section of the Indian High Commission in London. A year later, Kamlesh travelled with her son, Sushil, and daughter, Sunita, by ship from Bombay to join him in London. Over the years, the birth of Rita, Tony, Anu, Suman and Madhu completed their family. In the fullness of time, she would also become an adoring grandmother to Vickesha, Jessica, Jason, Sakhee, Milli, Vishal, Manav, Nihaal, Cameron and Jasmine.
After Bajaj Saab completed his mandated stint in the High Commission, they decided to stay on in England and set up home in Slough. He found manual work in a factory and she concentrated on bringing up their children. Bajaj Saab gave up his job to start a small business selling Indian handicrafts and groceries, with Kamlesh by his side.
Kamlesh Bajaj with her husband Hari Chand Bajaj
Not long after that they moved to London and bought their first grocery store on Shepherds Bush Road. For the next five decades through various businesses on Goldhawk Road, Shepherds Bush Market, Uxbridge Road, in Notting Hill Gate, on Marylebone Road, in Hammersmith and Ladbroke Grove, in Watford and in Wembley, Kamlesh worked untiringly with her husband, while bringing up her children.
Kamlesh Bajaj working in her shop
Though her education had been limited she acquired the skills to help run their various businesses as an equal partner. In 1974, after having trawled through a series of homes, often above or very close to their current business, Kamlesh and Bajaj Saab moved to a house in Wembley Park, which would become the family home filled with love for the next 47 years. Kamlesh was a dedicated wife to Bajaj Saab and a fiercely protective mother to her children, but her greatest achievement was that from the very early days she became an inspiration and a support to so many people who came from India after her. Despite her limited education, she used her spirit and warmth to communicate to a multitude the art of the possible.
Kamlesh Bajaj with her family
Her open house, untiring and unflagging spirit, warmth, wisdom and hospitality made her the person to turn to. She became the anchor not only for her immediate family, but became Kamlesh ji, Badi Maa, Big Mummy, Bhabi ji, Didi ji to a whole community.
Her generosity and compassion became legendary. To this day her children are often approached by absolute strangers who speak of the profound effect she had on their lives. Her home became the centre of social life for the community and would host many traditional celebrations and treated everyone with abiding respect. Kamlesh gave her children the education she never had and saw them thrive. Her love and affection became life-altering for so many.
Her Bajaj Saab passed away in 2012 and took with him Kamlesh’s will to live. Her health began to fail, and she was afflicted with Alzheimer’s disease. Yet, her presence continued to light up the lives of those she came in touch with. On March 15, 2021, she peacefully passed away in the presence of family. She left a legion of admirers and loved ones, to be with her Bajaj Saab again, on what was their 64th wedding anniversary. All her siblings pre-deceased her, as did so many of her loved ones. They will be having quite a get together in heaven.
Tourists stranded after Foça wildfire halts flights at Izmir airport
At least 550 people evacuated from homes in the region
Over 600 personnel deployed to contain the blaze
Strong winds and heat raise risk of further fires
Wildfires force airport shutdown in Turkish holiday hotspot
Hundreds of UK tourists, including several from Glasgow, have been left stranded after major wildfires swept through a popular holiday destination in western Turkey, forcing the closure of Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport.
The blaze broke out in the resort town of Foça, near Izmir, and was rapidly intensified by strong winds, prompting large-scale evacuations and flight disruptions. All operations at the airport were suspended from 4 pm local time due to ongoing extinguishing efforts, with multiple flights reportedly diverted.
More than 550 residents were evacuated from 175 homes in the Ilıpınar district, while emergency crews battled the fire for over 22 hours. The extensive response included 625 personnel, 46 fire engines, six helicopters, nine bulldozers and 13 water tankers.
Dramatic footage showed aircraft dropping water over the blaze in an effort to slow its spread. Authorities are still investigating the cause of the fire.
Süleyman Elban, Governor of Izmir Province, has urged residents and visitors to remain cautious, citing the combination of high temperatures and low humidity as factors that could lead to additional fires.
The Turkey wildfires have not been limited to Izmir. Blazes have also been reported this week in Kahramanmaraş, Bursa, Sakarya, Bilecik, Gaziantep, Bolu and Manisa, putting regional emergency services under sustained pressure.
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Glutathione and anti ageing drugs under spotlight after Shefali Jariwala death
Shefali Jariwala died at 42 in Mumbai after reportedly collapsing post-fast; cause of death suspected to be cardiac arrest or blood pressure drop.
Police found anti-ageing pills, vitamin supplements, and glutathione injections at her residence.
Doctors stress the risks of unsupervised use of hormone-based and anti-ageing treatments.
Final post-mortem report expected in two days; no foul play suspected, case treated as accidental death.
The untimely death of actor-model Shefali Jariwala has sparked renewed concern over the unregulated use of anti-ageing treatments and self-medication. The 42-year-old, best known for her appearance in Kaanta Laga, was declared dead on arrival at a Mumbai hospital on Friday night. Initial investigations suggest she may have suffered a cardiac arrest following a steep drop in blood pressure, possibly linked to taking supplements on an empty stomach.
Shefali Jariwala death raises concern over anti ageing drugs and self medication Instagram/shefalijariwala
What caused Shefali Jariwala’s collapse? Police and doctors investigate
Shefali Jariwala was rushed to Bellevue Multispeciality Hospital by her husband and friends after she suddenly collapsed at home, but she was already unresponsive. Her family said she had been fasting for a religious ritual and had consumed her regular supplements shortly after breaking the fast. Among the substances recovered at her Andheri apartment were glutathione injections, commonly used for skin lightening, and various anti-ageing tablets.
Doctors at Cooper Hospital, where her post-mortem was conducted, suspect a fatal drop in blood pressure, though only the final autopsy will confirm the precise cause of death. So far, Mumbai Police have ruled out foul play and registered an accidental death report.
Health experts warn against unmonitored anti-ageing therapies
Experts are now urging caution over the growing trend of unsupervised beauty and anti-ageing regimens, especially among public figures. Dr Dhirendra Singhania, a leading cardiologist, pointed to steroids, hormone therapies, and poor sleep as major heart risk factors, even among seemingly fit individuals. While glutathione and vitamin C aren’t inherently dangerous, he said their misuse or interaction with other drugs can trigger complications.
Anti ageing pills found at Shefali Jariwala home spark health safety debate Instagram/shefalijariwala
Shefali had no known chronic illnesses apart from epilepsy, which doctors say is unlikely to be linked to her sudden collapse. Her death, while still under investigation, adds to growing concerns about beauty pressures, self-prescribed treatments, and the long-term risks of trying to defy ageing without medical oversight.
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Prada acknowledges Indian influence behind its Spring Summer 2026 men’s footwear
• Prada confirms Indian roots behind 2026 ‘leather sandals’ after controversy • Indian artisans and officials accused the brand of cultural appropriation • The footwear resembles traditional Kolhapuri chappals with GI status • Prada says designs are still in development and open to dialogue with India
Italian fashion label Prada has officially acknowledged that its Spring/Summer 2026 menswear collection includes footwear inspired by India’s traditional Kolhapuri chappals. The statement came after mounting criticism from Indian artisans and industry leaders, who claimed the brand showcased the design at Milan Fashion Week without recognising its origins.
Prada confirms Kolhapuri chappals inspired its 2026 Milan collectionInstagram/prada
Prada responds to Kolhapuri chappal row
In a letter addressed to Lalit Gandhi, President of the Maharashtra Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture (MACCIA), Prada’s CSR head Lorenzo Bertelli confirmed the sandals were influenced by Indian craftsmanship. The fashion house admitted that the open-toe leather sandals presented on the Milan runway drew from the centuries-old Kolhapuri style, traditionally made by artisans in Maharashtra and Karnataka.
Kolhapuri chappals have been crafted for centuries and received GI tag in 2019 iStock
The controversy erupted after Prada described the footwear simply as “leather sandals” in its show notes, omitting any reference to India. This led to accusations of cultural appropriation and disregard for artisans' rights. BJP MP Dhananjay Mahadik also led a group of Kolhapuri chappal makers to meet Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, urging government action to protect their Geographical Indication (GI) status.
No production yet, says Prada, as India seeks fair credit
Prada clarified that the sandals shown were part of an early-stage design process and have not been confirmed for mass production. “None of the pieces are finalised or approved for commercial use,” Bertelli wrote.
MACCIA, in its communication, called for proper acknowledgement and possible collaboration or compensation for Indian artisans. The organisation stressed that Kolhapuri chappals are not just heritage products but also vital to the livelihoods of thousands of families.
In response, Bertelli assured Prada’s commitment to ethical design, cultural respect, and further engagement with Indian artisan communities. He also welcomed the opportunity for open dialogue on potential partnerships.
The Kolhapuri chappal, awarded GI status in 2019, is a symbol of regional identity and craftsmanship. As global fashion continues to borrow from traditional cultures, this case may set the tone for how brands address ownership, recognition, and respect.
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Wintour’s style of leadership earned her the nickname “Nuclear Wintour”
Anna Wintour steps down as editor of US Vogue after 37 years
She will remain Vogue’s global editorial director and hold senior roles at Condé Nast
Wintour transformed US Vogue into a global fashion authority
The 75-year-old has received numerous honours, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom
End of an era at US Vogue
Anna Wintour has stepped down as the editor of US Vogue, bringing to a close a 37-year tenure that redefined the publication and saw her become one of the most influential figures in global fashion.
The announcement was made on Thursday (26 June) during a staff meeting in New York. Wintour, 75, will no longer oversee the day-to-day editorial operations of Vogue’s US edition. However, she will continue to serve as Vogue’s global editorial director and Condé Nast’s chief content officer, maintaining senior leadership roles across the company.
A transformative legacy
Wintour took the helm of US Vogue in 1988, inheriting a relatively conservative magazine. She swiftly transformed it into a trendsetting, authoritative voice in fashion. Under her leadership, the publication became known for its iconic covers, high-end photography, and ability to shape careers in the fashion industry.
With extensive budgets and strong advertising support, Vogue became a global fashion flagship, influencing designers, celebrities, and brands worldwide.
Wintour’s style of leadership earned her the nickname “Nuclear Wintour” for her decisiveness, with some reports noting her tendency to make bold editorial decisions without extensive discussion. Her distinctive bob haircut and ever-present sunglasses made her a recognisable front-row figure at fashion weeks around the world.
Beyond the magazine
The British-born editor rose to wider public fame as the inspiration behind the character Miranda Priestly in The Devil Wears Prada — both the 2003 novel and the 2006 film adaptation. While Wintour rarely commented on the portrayal, she acknowledged the attention it brought, most recently during the launch of a stage musical adaptation in London in 2024.
She told the BBC, “They [my sunglasses] help me see and they help me not see. They help me be seen and not be seen. They are a prop, I would say.”
Wintour also became synonymous with the Met Gala, the annual high-profile charity event in New York City, which she has organised for years, drawing celebrities from fashion, film, politics, and sport.
Recognition and future plans
Wintour has received numerous accolades during her career. She was made a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire (DBE) in 2017 and became a Companion of Honour in February 2025. During the ceremony in London, she removed her sunglasses to receive the award and told King Charles III that she had no intention of retiring.
Wintour also became synonymous with the Met GalaGetty Images
In the United States, President Joe Biden awarded her the Presidential Medal of Freedom earlier this year before leaving office.
Despite stepping back from US Vogue, Wintour will continue to oversee several major Condé Nast titles including Wired, Vanity Fair, GQ, Condé Nast Traveler, and Glamour, as part of her global leadership responsibilities.
In her remarks to staff, she described the decision as “pivotal” but confirmed she would not be leaving the company or her office. “I’ll be turning all my attention to global leadership and working with our team of brilliant editors around the world,” she said.
Nadiya Hussain confirms BBC will not renew her cookery series
Bake Off winner challenges expectations to remain “grateful”
She says hard work and talent, not luck, brought her success
Celebrities, including Annie Lennox and Fearne Cotton, show support
BBC ends decade-long collaboration with Bake Off star
Nadiya Hussain has spoken out after the BBC decided not to commission another cookery programme with her. The popular TV chef, who won The Great British Bake Off in 2015, shared her views on social media, stating that she “won’t always be grateful” and should not be expected to remain silent about career setbacks.
The decision ends a nearly 10-year working relationship between the broadcaster and Hussain, who has hosted several well-received cookery shows under the BBC banner. In her latest Instagram video, she addressed the public’s reaction and emphasised her right to expect more from her career.
“Gratitude shouldn't be a muzzle”
In a video message posted on Instagram, Hussain said she had received numerous messages urging her to be grateful following the show's cancellation. She described how growing up in an immigrant household had shaped her understanding of gratitude.
“Grateful for being let in, grateful for having work—even if underpaid, grateful for safety—even if it meant silence,” she explained. “Gratitude became something that I was expected to wear like a uniform.”
She continued: “I am allowed to feel more than just thankful. I am a human being, and I am allowed to feel angry when I’m treated unfairly. I’m allowed to want better for myself and for my family.”
Challenging the idea that people from marginalised backgrounds must constantly express gratitude for any opportunities, she said: “We didn’t come here just to survive; we came here to live, to grow, to contribute, to belong—not as a guest, but as a person who has rights and dreams and dignity.”
Hussain concluded, “So no, I won’t always be grateful. I got here through hard work, through determination, through talent. I got here because I’m good at what I do.”
Nadiya’s message received widespread support from fans and fellow public figures. TV presenter Fearne Cotton responded with a series of heart emojis, while musician Annie Lennox praised her statement, writing: “Gratitude should never become a silencing muzzle—as you so rightly say!”
Rahul Mandal, who won Bake Off in 2018, commented: “So true. Thanks so much for speaking up.” TV doctor Amir Khan also backed her remarks, stating: “Exactly this! Well said.”
Nadiya’s track record with the BBC
Since winning Bake Off when it aired on the BBC, Hussain has fronted several successful cookery series for the broadcaster. These include Nadiya Bakes, Nadiya’s Fast Flavours, and Nadiya’s Simple Spices. She is also a published author of cookbooks and children’s titles.
Earlier this month, the BBC issued a statement on the programming decision: “After several wonderful series, we have made the difficult decision not to commission another cookery show with Nadiya Hussain at the moment.”
However, the broadcaster emphasised that it remains open to future collaborations and that Nadiya is “a much-valued part of the BBC family”.
What’s next for Nadiya?
While a new BBC project is not in the pipeline, Nadiya has hinted at future ventures. In a previous post addressing the show’s cancellation, she said she is now focusing on “being [her] most authentic self” and is looking forward to working with people who “believe in [her] talent”.
She also reassured her followers that “exciting” new projects are on the way.