London, 14th July 2025 – In his newly released book, From Raj to Blighty: South Asia’s Impact on Modern Britain, historical author Chris Moorey explores the profound influence of South Asian communities on the UK, challenging the notion of a “pure British culture.” The book, published on 14th July 2025, traces contributions dating back to the 17th century, highlighting their role in shaping British culture, security, and prosperity.
How did Chris Moorey get here?
Moorey, a former British Telecom professional with academic roots at Oxford and Surrey universities, argues that British identity has always been a blend of global influences. “A uniquely pure British culture simply does not exist and never has existed – we have been influenced by many cultures over the centuries,” he states. His work aims to replace ignorance and prejudice with fact-based understanding, particularly amid rising societal tensions. Also read about storyteller, ROD BERGER
A Historical Journey
From Raj to Blighty begins with a detailed historical overview, charting South Asian involvement in Britain from the 17th century. It covers the legacy of the British Raj and the contributions of lascars—sailors from the Indian subcontinent who played a vital role in Britain’s maritime history. The book also celebrates South Asians’ military service, notably the bravery of the Gurkhas during the two World Wars.
Moorey highlights key figures such as Mahatma Gandhi, the lawyer and political activist who led India’s independence movement, and Rabindranath Tagore, the Bengali poet and social reformer. These individuals, among others, exemplify the diverse contributions of South Asians from 1766 to 1945.
Cultural and Social Impact
The book delves into the integration of South Asian faiths—Islam, Hinduism, Sikhism, and others—into British life, showcasing their role in creating a vibrant, multicultural society. From the establishment of the National Health Service (NHS) to achievements in politics, sports, and cuisine, South Asian communities have left an indelible mark on modern Britain.
Moorey emphasizes the economic and cultural prosperity brought by South Asians, noting their influence in everything from curry houses to parliamentary representation. “Their contributions are woven into the fabric of British life,” he writes, underscoring the importance of recognizing this shared history.
Addressing Contemporary Challenges
The book arrives at a time of heightened societal tensions, with Moorey addressing the rise in Islamophobia fueled by the Israel-Gaza conflict and inflammatory rhetoric from some politicians. He also references the complications arising from illegal immigration, which contributed to racial tensions and riots in July and August 2024.
Despite these challenges, Moorey remains optimistic. “I am still broadly optimistic about the future and maintain that the contribution of British South Asians to UK life will continue to be a positive one,” he writes. His book serves as a call to embrace knowledge over prejudice, fostering a more inclusive national narrative.
Availability
From Raj to Blighty is available for purchase on Amazon for £12. For more details, visit: Amazon UK.
For media inquiries, contact Dhiren Katwa at Karma PR: 07970 911386 or deekatwa@aol.com.
