Pooja Pillai is an entertainment journalist with Asian Media Group, where she covers cinema, pop culture, internet trends, and the politics of representation. Her work spans interviews, cultural features, and social commentary across digital platforms.
She began her reporting career as a news anchor, scripting and presenting stories for a regional newsroom. With a background in journalism and media studies, she has since built a body of work exploring how entertainment intersects with social and cultural shifts, particularly through a South Indian lens.
She brings both newsroom rigour and narrative curiosity to her work, and believes the best stories don’t just inform — they reveal what we didn’t know we needed to hear.
Wireless headphones are no longer just a luxury; they’re a lifestyle essential. Whether you’re blasting your favourite playlist on your morning commute across London, tuning out distractions while working from home, or hitting the gym, the right pair can make all the difference. But with countless options flooding the market, how do you choose? Don’t worry—we’ve done the hard work for you. From premium noise-cancelling powerhouses to wallet-friendly gems, here are the five best wireless headphones to elevate your audio game in 2025. Here’s our list:
1. Bowers & Wilkins Px8 (2025 Edition): A standout choice for UK audiophiles, the Bowers & Wilkins Px8 combines British craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology. Known for their luxurious design and exceptional sound quality, these over-ear headphones feature enhanced noise cancellation and up to 35 hours of battery life. Whether you’re navigating the Tube or enjoying a quiet evening at home, the Px8 delivers a rich, immersive listening experience.
Luxury, sound, and up to 35 hours of battery life—experience the Bowers & Wilkins Px8Bowers & Wilkins
2. Apple AirPods Max (2025 Edition): Apple’s premium over-ear headphones have been updated with improved spatial audio and longer battery life. Ideal for Apple users, the AirPods Max seamlessly integrate with other Apple devices, making them a top choice for those already in the ecosystem. Whether you’re in Manchester or Edinburgh, these headphones ensure a premium listening experience.
Premium sound and seamless integration—Apple AirPods Max, now with enhanced spatial audio and longer battery lifeApple
3.Bose QuietComfort Ultra: Known for their comfort and exceptional noise cancellation, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra headphones are a great option for long listening sessions. They’re lightweight, durable, and deliver rich, balanced sound, perfect for travellers or remote workers across the UK.
Ultimate comfort and noise cancellation—Bose QuietComfort Ultra, perfect for long listening sessionsBose
4. Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless: For audiophiles, the Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless headphones are a dream come true. With superior sound quality, a stylish design, and up to 60 hours of battery life, these headphones are a premium choice for those who prioritise audio performance. Whether you’re in Birmingham or Brighton, the Momentum 4 Wireless won’t disappoint.
Superior sound, style, and 60-hour battery life—Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless, the ultimate choice for audiophilesSennheiser Hearing
5. Jabra Elite 85t (2025 Refresh): A more affordable option without compromising on quality, the Jabra Elite 85t offers excellent noise cancellation, a comfortable fit, and impressive sound quality. These earbuds are ideal for gym-goers or anyone looking for a compact, versatile option. Perfect for busy Brits on the move.
Affordable quality, excellent noise cancellation—Jabra Elite 85t, perfect for busy Brits on the go.Jabra
Whether you’re chasing studio-quality sound, unbeatable noise cancellation, or a steal that won’t break the bank, 2025’s line-up has you covered. With the latest tech and sleek designs, wireless headphones have never been this good. Ready to transform how you listen? Your perfect pair is just a click away, so explore the top picks now!
Licensing reforms let pubs host events and serve outdoors with ease
South Asian workers turned pub rejection into a thriving desi pub scene.
South Asian pubs mix Indian cuisine, Punjabi beats, and British pub culture.
From rejection to reinvention
When south Asian foundry and factory workers arrived in England decades ago, they faced a harsh reality, refusal at the pub doors and their response was by building their own. From The Scotsman in Southall over 50 years old, run by Shinda Mahal, to Birmingham’s The Grove and The Covered Wagon, these establishments emerged as immigrant workers from India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh moved to the West Midlands.
Now, as the UK government launches a fast-track review to scrap outdated licensing rules, these south Asian pubs stand ready to write a new chapter in British hospitality. “Pubs and bars are the beating heart of our communities. Under our Plan for Change, we’re backing them to thrive”, said prime minister Keir Starmer.
The new reforms aim to slash pointless restrictions that have stifled community events and local venues for years. From serving food outside to hosting live music, red tape has made simple operations unnecessarily complex. For south Asian pub owners, who have already overcome decades of resistance, this signals an opportunity to expand while maintaining the cultural spaces they fought to establish.
The spirit of the Desi pub
The documentary Rise of the Mixy directed by Gurudev Singh chronicles how these establishments emerged from racial resistance to become the symbols of British Asian culture, combining public houses with Indian food and Punjabi music.
"I think in the Midlands there's a strong sense of community, especially among Asians and Punjabis," Gurudev told the BBC. This community spirit defines desi pubs, where tandoori mixed grills sizzle alongside draught ale and dartboards.
David Jesudason, Beer Writer of the Year 2023 and the author of Desi Pubs, in an interview with LBC Blog told “Many metropolitan city dwellers particularly in gentrified London have no idea about this kind of ground-level work. But none of it wouldn’t have taken place without desi landlords taking over failing pubs and making them inclusive spaces”.
A toast to the future
The timing couldn't be better. The beer and pub sector supports over £30 billion being pushed into the economy, £18 billion in taxes, and one million jobs, according to the British Beer and Pub Association. Yet the industry faces mounting pressures. Approximately 46,000 pubs are trading across the UK as of early 2025, with closures threatening communities nationwide.
A Frontier Economics report highlights how UK pubs serve residents and visitors alike, supporting jobs whilst delivering vital social value. South Asian pubs are reshaping this landscape with fresh energy while cherishing British traditions. Over the last 20 years, West Midlands south Asian-owned public houses have transformed from regional particularity into a trend capturing national press attention and online food bloggers. The reforms promise practical relief.
Pubs will find it easier to host community events, extend trading hours, and use outdoor spaces without bureaucratic hurdles. For desi establishments already juggling cultural events, live music, and food service, this means freedom to innovate without constantly battling licensing restrictions.
Nick Mackenzie, co-chair of the Licensing Taskforce and CEO at Greene King, emphasised the sector's challenges: "Pubs are faced with continued rising costs, placing them under enormous pressures, which is why the government must continue to back the sector, including critical reforms on business rates which would unlock opportunities for pubs to invest and help drive economic growth."
For south Asian pub owners, the message is clear, the barriers that once kept their grandparents out of British pubs won't be the same ones holding back their businesses. From The Scotsman to countless West Midlands establishments, these venues represent resilience, integration, and a uniquely British Asian an identity. As red tape falls away, they're poised to show that the best of British pub culture can flourish with a distinctly south Asian flavour no permission slips required.
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