The Pakistan & Kashmir Welfare Association (PKWA) Community Centre buzzed with anticipation on Friday, 27 September 2024, as Ahmed Lunat, OBE, Chair of the Gujarati Writers Forum (GWF), launched his latest book, Our Heritage 2. The event saw a packed room of a diverse, multi-generational audience, showcasing the vibrant landscape of communities united to celebrate a shared history.
The sequel to his 2019 release, Our Heritage, which highlighted the journeys of 11 first-generation Gujarati men who migrated from the Indian subcontinent and settled in Batley and Yorkshire, Our Heritage 2 shifts the spotlight to a lesser-told narrative. It chronicles the remarkable stories of 12 Gujarati Muslim women who made the journey as children or teenagers and overcame the immense challenges of settling in an unfamiliar land. With patience, resilience, and unwavering resolve, these pioneering women helped build a community that thrives today in Batley, Yorkshire, and beyond.
Abdul A Ravat, who supported Mr Lunat, on this project and spoke at the launch, reminded the audience of his foreword message:
“The life we all enjoy in the UK did not happen by accident. It is due to the hardships, struggles, and unity of the early arrivals who came to Batley and across the UK to help rebuild the post-war economy. Our mothers and sisters, who joined their husbands and built a new life for their families, are the unsung heroes. This book serves as a fitting testament to their sacrifices, highlighting their profound contributions. Recording and celebrating these journeys is crucial—not just for our community but also for the wider society to appreciate the positive impact of immigration that Britain is known for.”
Eighty-six-year-old author Mr Lunat shared his reflections on the evening and the significance of the book:
“I’ve written numerous books on topics ranging from poetry to community issues. However, this book is special as it corrects an oversight in my past work—I hadn’t fully acknowledged the contributions of our sisters and daughters to our shared history. Seeing grandmothers and granddaughters connect over these stories gave me a glow in my heart. I hope Our Heritage 2 fills the gap in representation and ensures that the voices of these pioneering women are heard in archives, museums, and schools.”
The event’s chief guest, Samantha Vickers, CEO of the Batley Multi Academy Trust and recipient of a special recognition award, praised the initiative:
“It was an honour to be invited to the launch of Our Heritage 2. This book is more than a collection of stories; it’s a celebration of the incredible women who made Batley a place that thrives in diversity and unity. Our task now is to ensure these stories reach the younger generations, empowering them to be brave, resilient, and proud of their heritage.”
Imtiaz Patel Varediawala, from the GWF and the evening’s master of ceremonies, emphasised the importance of preserving these narratives:
“Documenting community history and heritage is an essential responsibility. It creates a bridge between past, present, and future, cultivating respect for our shared heritage while inspiring progress.”
The event was further enlivened with moving readings from two case studies:
- Case Study 8 – Aisha Adam Ravat, read by her grand-daughters Ammaarah Ravat and Irfanah Seedat.
- Case Study 11 – Sabera MA Laher-Lal, read by her grand-daughter Zahra Laher Lal, followed by an engaging Q&A session.
Other distinguished speakers included:
- Aisha Iqbal, BBC journalist, who spoke on the significance of understanding one’s heritage.
- Rashiqha Laher, granddaughter of Ahmed Lunat, OBE, who shared insights on discovering family roots.
- Abdul Karim Gheewala, founder and Chair of the Indian Muslim Association in Leicester, who discussed the transformation of the community after the arrival of these pioneering women.
- Member of Parliament for Batley and Dewsbury Iqbal Mohammed, who shared warm reflections on his own mother’s influence.
The GWF also took the opportunity to honour the achievements of five extraordinary women, which included our Editor in Chief, with special recognition awards:
- Samantha Vickers – For her outstanding contribution to education, presented by Rt Hon Iqbal Mohammed MP.
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Fatima Patel – For her excellence in journalism, presented by Rashiqha Laher.
- Hawabibi Laher, OBE – For her pioneering role in education, presented by retired teacher Jeanette Dent.
- Saheda Yusuf Patel – For her service to the Royal Voluntary Service, presented by Zaynab Daji.
- Maryam Adam – For her lifetime of hospitality to legendary cricketers and their families, presented by Aisha Iqbal, BBC journalist.
The evening concluded with heartfelt thanks from Shabbir Kazi, Vice Chair of GWF, who expressed deep appreciation to the women whose stories shaped the book and those honoured for their contributions. Gratitude was also extended to the volunteers, sponsors, and the PKWA for hosting the event. The night ended on a high note, with guests from as far afield as Leicester, Lancashire, Huddersfield, and Bradford leaving inspired by the resilience and legacy of the women who helped build a community that continues to thrive.
