University of Southampton’s India Centre commemorates five years with research project

The project name is Ramniklal Solanki Pioneers Research Project which is named after the late founder and editor-in-chief of the Garavi Gujarat newspaper and the Asian Media Group.

Study in UK: For inclusive growth and sustainable development, the University of Southampton in the UK marked its fifth anniversary of its India Centre.

While commenting on this, Vice-Chancellor Professor Mark E. Smith said, "The University of Southampton has a long-standing and cherished relationship with India. This research project provides vital historical context, illustrating how these pioneers have shaped Britain. It's a fantastic way to commemorate the growth and achievements of the India Centre over the past five years."

Professor Sabu Padmadas, founding Executive Director of the India Centre, said, "We are immensely proud of the India Centre’s impactful journey and accomplishments, especially leading this high-profile ‘living legacy’ project of national significance. It captures the inspiring life histories and multicultural essence of Great Britain."

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In one of its one-of-a-kind research projects, in which 10 influential South Asian personal stories have been recorded and archived. It was ensured that their legacies were endured and their substantial contributions to modern Britain were also documented.

The project aimed to continue identifying and preserving an additional 90 pioneer stories. The project features notable figures including multifaceted Meera Syal, comedian, actress and writer known for "The Kumars at No. 42,” and "Goodness Gracious Me". Also, it included the story of the former Chancellor of the Exchequer, The Right Honourable Sajid Javid.

A cricketer, Azeem Rafiq, who was the first person of Asian origin to captain a Yorkshire side and played professionally for Yorkshire County Cricket Club. Moreover, Dr Chaand Nagpaul’s story who played a key role during the pandemic and is the first ethnic minority chair of the British Medical Association.

As per the QS World University Rankings 2025, the University of Southampton is among the top 100 institutions in the world. It focuses on original and innovative thinking and turns knowledge into impact and action.

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