Newcastle’s culinary and cultural landscape was transformed in May 1965 with the opening of The Rajah, the city’s first Indian restaurant—or more accurately, a Bangladeshi curry house. At the time, these establishments were popularly referred to as ‘Indian restaurants,’ a term that gained widespread recognition in the 1960s and 70s.
Established at 18 Cloth Market by the visionary entrepreneur Wahiduddin Ahmed Kutub, affectionately known as Ahmed, the restaurant not only introduced authentic Indian cuisine but also played a pivotal role in shaping the city’s diversity.
Though The Rajah is no longer in operation, its legacy remains deeply embedded in Newcastle’s thriving Indian restaurant scene. But Ahmed’s impact extends far beyond food, he was a respected community leader, a fierce advocate for racial equality, and Newcastle’s first Muslim councillor.
From Humble Beginnings to Culinary Success
Ahmed’s journey began in 1961 when he arrived in the UK from what is now Bangladesh, seeking a better life for his family. While working in a London restaurant, he met a businessman from Newcastle who was so impressed by the cuisine that he encouraged Ahmed to bring it to the Northeast. Together, they launched The Rajah – a restaurant that quickly became a sensation.
“It was incredibly successful,” recalls Ahmed’s son, Mehtab. “As a kid in the early ’70s, I remember seeing people queuing outside on Saturdays just to get in.”
The success of The Rajah led to the opening of several more restaurants, solidifying Ahmed’s reputation as a pioneer in the hospitality industry.
A Champion for Racial Equality
Beyond business, Ahmed was deeply committed to social justice. Arriving in Newcastle at a time when racism was rife, he faced many challenges, including acts of vandalism and prejudice. But instead of retreating, he fought for change.
“My father was a big believer in social justice,” Mehtab explains. “He got involved in race
relations, served on the Home Secretary’s board for race relations, and built strong ties with Northumbria Police.”
His dedication to community cohesion led him into politics, where he made history as Newcastle’s first Black, Asian, and minority ethnic councillor, serving in what was then a predominantly white and Conservative ward. His influence extended beyond the city, as he worked tirelessly to promote racial harmony across the UK.
Honouring a Legacy of Leadership
Ahmed’s contributions were recently recognised with a blue plaque at the Newcastle Bangladeshi Association on Elswick Road. The ceremony, led by former Lord Mayor Cllr Habib Rahman, coincided with Bangladesh’s Independence Day, a fitting tribute to Ahmed’s lifelong commitment to both his heritage and his adopted home.
“He was passionate about race relations, humanity, and community,” says Mehtab. “That recognition was a proud moment for me, it was Newcastle honouring a man who had given so much to the city.”
Faith, Culture, and a Historic Visit from Muhammad Ali
Ahmed’s influence wasn’t limited to politics and business. He played a key role in strengthening interfaith and intercultural relations, working with Jewish, West Indian, and Chinese communities in Newcastle.
One of his most remarkable contributions was helping to organise boxing legend Muhammad Ali’s visit to the Northeast in 1977. Ali, a devout
Muslim, wanted his marriage to Veronica Porché Ali blessed in a local mosque, and Ahmed helped arrange the ceremony at Al Azhar Mosque in South Shields. Thousands lined the streets to welcome the heavyweight champion, who later said, “I’ve never been received like up here in Newcastle!”
A Lasting Inspiration
Despite his success in the UK, Ahmed remained deeply connected to his Bengali roots, often helping new immigrants adjust to life in Britain. His legacy, Mehtab says, is one of perseverance and unity.
Asked what advice his father would give to young Asian entrepreneurs today; Mehtab’s response is simple: “Never give up. There will be challenges but believe in your ability to overcome them.”
Ahmed Kutub’s story is one of resilience, innovation, and an unrelenting commitment to community. He didn’t just bring the flavours of India to Newcastle—he brought people together, breaking barriers and building bridges that continue to shape the city today.
