what is a desi pub

A Desi pub is a British pub owned or managed by a landlord of Indian origin. These pubs blend traditional British pub culture with South Asian influences, typically serving Punjabi food alongside traditional British ales and maintaining classic pub features such as pub games. The term "Desi" comes from a Sanskrit word meaning "land" or "country," and in this context, it refers to South Asian culture. Desi pubs originated in the UK during the 1960s and 1970s as a response to racial segregation and exclusion faced by South Asian immigrants, particularly in industrial towns. They provided a welcoming space for Asian and Black communities who faced discrimination in many traditional pubs. Over time, Desi pubs have become cultural hubs that celebrate multiculturalism by combining British pub traditions with Indian cuisine, music (such as Bhangra), and hospitality. They also symbolize a successful example of cultural integration and community empowerment.