One of the nearest gravestones to where we live, on the edge of the churchyard, is that of Sake Deen Mohammed.
If you have an Indian Restaurant near to where you live (and I'm sure you do), it is thanks to Sake Deen Mohammed; late of this parish.
Mohammed had a foot in several pies. He was a hotelier here in Brighton where he specialised in 'curative waters'. He developed the 'Vapour Bathhouse' (Sauna?), and offered his clients a 'Massage with Indian Oils'. All very exotic.
In 1810 Mohammed opened the UK's very first Indian Restaurant, called The Hindoostane Coffee House in London's Portman Square.
Considerably later, in 1926, Veeraswamy's opened in Regent Street (where I have actually eaten), which is now England's oldest running Indian Restaurant.
Mohammed's gravestone is rather hidden behind a wall, so very few people actually see it. But frankly, even if they did, they wouldn't know much of his history. Nothing is revealed on the stone's script.
This is the great man himself (below). Handsome devil, ain't he!
So, the next time you visit your local 'Indian' for a Vindaloo, some Papadums, and a pint of Lager, think of Mr Mohammed. I pass his grave twice a day!
Mr Mohammed appears to have a very stiff neck. I guess that can happen when you have been buried in the ground for two hundred years. Is that where we get the deathly term "stiff" from?
ReplyDeleteAs you can also see, he was carrying gloves, so it must have been a particularly cold winter!
DeleteWhat's that he is pointing at with his right forefinger?
DeleteGout!
DeleteThere are many excellent Indian restaurants in London. I've had some of the best meals at these restaurants. Who does not love a great curry and naan bread?
ReplyDeleteMy first ever taste of Indian cuisine was at Veeraswamy's in Regent St. I was quite young; 10 maybe. And was amazed by all the new flavours. All the waiters were dressed in exotic Indian clothing too.
DeleteWow, I like his story. A true entrepreneur and from so long ago. Thanks for the telling even though any Indian restaurant is far away
ReplyDeleteThey'd have some in Athens; I'm sure.
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