Part 2: A Decade of Discovery at Colourful Heritage in Scotland

Personal Reflections, Hidden Histories, and the Road Ahead

As Project Officer for Colourful Heritage, my journey into the field of preserving South Asian and Muslim heritage in Scotland was not planned—it began with a question that I often pondered and reflected on, which my son eventually asked me in his teenage years: “Why are we in Scotland?” I did not realise then how deeply that question would shape my path.

Some of the most significant discoveries have been personal. Before entering the heritage space, I completed a PhD in Organic Chemistry at St Andrews University. Through this, I came across the Pauson–Khand reaction, widely studied for its importance in pharmaceutical chemistry. Learning that one of its key contributors was Dr Ihsan Ullah Khand, a Pakistani Muslim student from Lahore who undertook his PhD at the University of Strathclyde in the late 1960s, was both surprising and deeply meaningful. It connected my scientific background with my own Scottish Pakistani Muslim identity and my heritage work in an unexpected way, highlighting how much remains hidden in plain sight.

Discovering the role of the humble South Asian fabric shops in Glasgow that were uniquely run by women, was truly an eye opener. I often visited these as a teenager with my mum not realising how important these spaces were. The pioneering women entrepreneurs paved the way for the next generation of female entrepreneurs. They also created opportunities for many women to stitch from home as they diversified into providing a tailoring service and ready to wear garments for their customers. Not only did ladies from mainly India and Pakistan buy dress material from these shops but it’s where they made new friends and openly spoke in their mother tongue and got their news on what was happening back home. It was a place they could escape to and discuss a range of issues and even arrange ‘rishtas’ (marriage proposals) for their children. These even acted as a bank as ladies would be part of the shops ‘committee’ saving scheme.

Another powerful discovery has been the story of Force K6—a unit of Muslim soldiers from the British Indian Army who escaped from Dunkirk and eventually were stationed in Scotland during the Second World War. Their service represents an often-overlooked chapter of shared history, rooted in sacrifice and solidarity. They were part of 4 million soldiers that stood shoulder to shoulder with Britain to fight against fascism during both

World War I and II. Yet this narrative is missed out in history particularly within the wider school curriculum. Colourful Heritage have undertaken a community wide project to build Scotland’s first National British Indian Army memorial outside Kelvingrove Art Gallery as a tangible asset to help commemorate and educate future generations.

At the heart of this work is a simple belief: understanding our history shapes our future. We have only just begun to uncover these histories, but already they remind us that Scotland’s story has always been more diverse, more connected, and more shared than we often realise.

I firmly believe that when South Asians particularly the next generation learn about these contributions, it will strengthen their identity, pride, and self-belonging. At a time when divisive narratives are increasingly visible, this work to highlight our contributions is more important than ever. By grounding our communities—and wider society—in shared heritage, we can challenge misinformation and foster not only a more inclusive Scotland, but a better Britain.

Today, I see Scotland as a richly diverse landscape—a tartan woven not only with traditional threads, but with colours and patterns from across the world. South Asian and Muslim communities are an integral part of that tapestry. Through Colourful Heritage, I have sought to make that visible—ensuring future generations grow up knowing they belong and that their histories matter.

Ten years on, there are still many challenges in the heritage space such as forgotten or lost histories. The work to preserve South Asian history feels more urgent than ever. There are still many stories to uncover, voices to amplify, and connections to explore. Together, these efforts highlight how much remains to be uncovered. The urgency is clear: many stories risk being lost as older generations pass away or face conditions such as Alzheimer’s and dementia. Yet there is also momentum—a growing recognition that inclusive heritage matters.

It has been a privilege and an honour to be part of this journey. As Head of Research, I see this work as a strong foundation and as my gift, on behalf of Colourful Heritage, for future generations to learn from and build on. I would not have been able to do this alone. I extend my sincere thanks to Dr Omar Shaikh and Mr Tariq Shaikh, Founders of Colourful Heritage for giving me this unique opportunity in preserving our history. Thanks also to my many colleagues and friends as well as partners, and stakeholders who have supported this work, especially my family. Above all, I am grateful to the individuals and families who have trusted me with their stories. Their memories form the foundation of Colourful Heritage, and it has been a privilege to help preserve them.

For Part 1 visit: XXXXXXX

By Dr Saqib Razzaq, Project Officer & Head of Research, Colourful Heritage.

To discover more about the digital resources by Colourful Heritage visit: ‘Preserving Scotland’s South Asian and Muslim Heritage’

To watch and hear the DemocraTea podcast with former MP, Anum Qaiser and Dr Saqib Razzaq celebrating Colourful Heritage visit: We Didn’t Arrive Yesterday | South Asians in Scotland

Contact & Social media information:

Email:          [email protected]

Facebook:   www.facebook.com/ColourfulHeritage

Twitter:        @ColourHeritage 

Web:            www.colourfulheritage.com

YouTube:     www.youtube.com/Colourfulheritage