Rishi Sunak: Britain’s First Prime Minister of Colour
On Tuesday (Nov 1), the UK witnessed a historic moment when Rishi Sunak became the nation’s first Prime Minister of colour. Many in the Asian community celebrated it as a cultural milestone – a bright spot amid the country’s economic ups‑and‑downs and political jitters.
Cheers From New Delhi to West London
The news sparked cheers from bustling streets of New Delhi, where crowds were still dancing to the beat of Diwali, all the way down to the shopping lanes of west London.
- Asma Choudry, a pensioner on Southall High Street, proudly said, “After 42 years in Britain, this is a wild turn of events. In a multicultural society, anything can happen.”
- Rishabh Sharma, a 25‑year‑old entrepreneur, added, “Being Indian, I’m proud of him. He’s the guy we’ve been rooting for!”
Even Across the Channel
Remarkably, even in Europe, people took notice. A senior EU diplomat told Reuters, “Sunak’s appointment as the first British PM of Asian descent is fascinating. In France or Germany, this would likely stir more tension.”
All Parties Agree
The moment echoed across the political spectrum. Anas Sarwar, Labour leader in Scotland, tweeted, “This is a day our grandparents could never have imagined. A huge milestone for the UK.”
Key Takeaways
- Rishi Sunak becomes the first Prime Minister of colour in Britain.
- Celebrations erupt from New Delhi to west London.
- Even European diplomats see this as a sign of Britain’s inclusive progress.
- Political leaders from both sides applaud the historic achievement.
In short, Rishi Sunak’s victory feels like a giant cheer‑up‑the‑world moment for those who’ve long dreamed of an inclusive Britain. The country has tasted a big taste of cultural progress on the political stage, and it’s a win for everyone who values diversity.
Youth, wealth and race
Rishi Sunak: From the 1960s Migration Wave to the UK’s Highest Office
Sunak’s family set foot in Britain during a decade marked by social change and rampant racism. They joined a modest yet expanding community that grew into a significant slice of society.
According to official figures, by 2019 there were 1.66 million people of Indian descent living in England and Wales—2.8 % of the population.
Career Path: From Southern England to the Upper Echelons
- Born in the South, Rishi rode the rails of Britain’s elite schools:
- Winchester College
- Oxford University
- After grades, he carved a niche in finance, then married the daughter of the billionaire behind Infosys.
Some say the blend of talent and fortune helped him shoot past racial hurdles.
Across Britain’s political spectrum, headlines highlighted not just his wealth but also his heritage. At 42, Sunak is one of Westminster’s most affluent politicians.
Seeing the Bigger Picture
(Think tank British Future’s director Sunder Katwala summed it up): “The political landscape has broadened—ethnicity, faith, gender, and competence all play a role.”
On the Rise: From Local MP to Prime Minister
Sunak is slated to ascend to the top job next Tuesday.
Feelings from Fellow Conservatives
- Rishi Trivedi, 50, chartered accountant from West Drayton—“I’m over the moon, but a worry lingers that a rich leader like Sunak may not share our everyday struggles.”
- Jignesh Patel, 49, mural painter from Hounslow—“We Indians are quiet, we work, we pay taxes, we earn money. Yet politics felt distant. Now I see it’s time for us to shape the narrative.”
He added: “We might complain, but the solution demands us to actively participate.”
Where It Leads
With a lifetime of blending ambition, heritage, and a touch of humour, Sunak’s journey reflects a changing Britain ready for diverse voices at the helm.
