The Epic Journey: From Iran to India on Foot
Dr Zahra Hussaini is deeply captivated by the remarkable tale of her father, Sayed Hussein Hussaini. At just 12 years old, he embarked on a grueling journey from his hometown of Yazd in Iran to India, driven by a devastating famine. He was part of a large group that traversed approximately 3,500 kilometers on foot over six months. To survive this arduous trek, they relied on their skills, taking up carpentry and masonry work wherever opportunities arose along the route.
Settlement and the Rise of Irani Cafés
Upon reaching India, many of these migrants settled in prominent cities such as Mumbai, Pune, and Hyderabad. Here, they laid the foundations of what would become iconic Irani cafés and restaurants. Dr Hussaini notes an interesting historical quirk: "Iranians used their intelligence and picked up the corner areas which were considered jinxed." These corner plots, once deemed unlucky by locals, were more affordable and accessible, allowing the community to establish thriving businesses.
The distinct Irani chai emerged from the evening gatherings of her father and his companions. Dr Hussaini attributes its unique flavor to a specialized brewing method, using pure milk and high-quality tea powder. "They use a special kettle. The uniqueness of 'Irani chai' also stems from a prolonged brewing process. With Parsi diary milk and quality tea powder, it becomes the perfect brew," she explains. While traditional versions were spice-free, modern adaptations often include saffron and cardamom for enhanced taste.
Contributions to Bengaluru's Development
Dr Hussaini, born and raised in Mumbai, now operates a dental clinic in RT Nagar, Bengaluru. She has also developed a kit for early detection of oral cancer, addressing a significant health issue in rural India. The Iranian community's influence in Bengaluru dates back over a century, with members playing pivotal roles in transforming the city into a garden paradise and constructing landmarks like Lalbagh.
Mirza Mohmmad Mehdi, a 79-year-old Bengaluru resident of Iranian descent, reflects on this legacy: "They acquired substantial properties, established charitable endowments, and played a role in shaping the city’s landscape." The community has grown from about 2,000 people in earlier decades to an estimated 30,000–40,000 today, with around 10,000 being direct descendants, continuing to impact Bengaluru's social and architectural fabric.
Historical Figures and Legacy
Iranians in India have held prestigious positions, serving as prime ministers and governors for royal families like the Wodeyars. Rebab Al-Karimi, a Richmond Town resident, shares the story of her great-great-grandfather, Agha Aly Asker, who arrived in India in 1824 with his two brothers, bringing 300 Arab horses to sell to the British. "He found a father figure in Sir Mark Cubbon, who served as commissioner of Mysuru, and also shared a love of horses. He was also very friendly with the then Maharaja of Mysuru Mummadi Krishnaraja Wodeyar who appreciated good horseflesh," says Al-Karimi.
Asker's grandson, Sir Mirza Ismail, became the prime minister of Mysuru state under Krishnaraja Wodeyar IV. Other notable figures include Akbar Mirza Khalelli, an ambassador to Iran and Italy, and Dr Mirza Sajjad Hussain, a paediatrician who supported Iranian patients during the Iran-Iraq war before settling in Bengaluru. Additionally, Iranian students at Bangalore University and city colleges have contributed to the city's cosmopolitan atmosphere.
Modern Ties and Geopolitical Concerns
Despite losing her father at a young age, Dr Hussaini maintains strong connections with Iran. Recent events, such as the US-Israel attack on Iran, have caused her significant distress. "Many of my close relatives, including my sister and her family, still live in Tehran and Karaj," she reveals. Having held an Iranian passport until ninth grade before becoming a naturalized Indian citizen, she experienced panic when communication was cut off during the conflict due to internet blocks for security reasons.
Dr Hussaini expresses outrage: "Iran was ruthlessly attacked and bombarded, that too during Ramadan. They intentionally chose to attack us when we were physically weak, when we were fasting and praying." Similarly, Mohsin Ali Shirazi, a fifth-generation Iranian with roots in Shiraz, constantly checks on his relatives in Iran. He recounts a recent bomb blast near their new home, built by his wife, a civil engineer.
Challenges in the Diaspora
Shirazi, who runs Active Arena, a sports centre in Bengaluru, highlights restrictions faced by the Iranian community in India. "We are not even allowed to put up banners displaying images of revered religious scholars at private functions held at residences and prayer halls," he complains. He cites an incident where police initially refused permission for a gathering of 2,500 community members to mourn Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's assassination, later filing an FIR against 17 individuals, including an MLA.
A prominent Iranian businessman in Sadashivanagar, who wishes to remain anonymous, recalls hosting Ayatollah Ali Khamenei during a 1981 visit to India. He shares anecdotes of Khamenei's humility, such as requesting simple meals and sleeping on a carpet with his turban as a pillow. The assassination has left Shirazi devastated: "It’s hard to cope with the loss. Even if I lose my children, I won’t be as heartbroken."
Personal Stories and Legacy Continuation
Dr Zahra Hussaini, with two patents to her name, serves a high-profile clientele, including cricketers, at her dental clinic. Mohsin Ali Shirazi identifies as Indian with Iranian ethnicity, tracing his family's history back to horse traders who arrived by ship via Mangaluru about 200 years ago. Rebab Al-Karimi's family, originally from Shiraz, continues to honor their heritage, with her mother authoring a book titled 'Agha Aly Asker.'
This narrative underscores the enduring impact of the Iranian diaspora in India, blending historical migration with contemporary contributions and ongoing cultural ties amidst global tensions.
