Apache Indian condemns “irresponsible and dangerous” remarks about Handsworth
British Asian music icon artist Apache Indian has hit back at comments made by Shadow Justice Secretary Robert Jenrick, who reportedly described Handsworth in Birmingham as “one of the worst-integrated places” he has ever been to.
The globally recognised artist — who was born and raised in Handsworth — called Jenrick’s remarks “irresponsible and dangerous”, warning that such rhetoric risks fuelling division and emboldening the far right at a time when Britain needs unity more than ever.
“Handsworth is my home — it’s where I was born and raised. It’s one of the most diverse and culturally rich communities in the country,” said Apache Indian. “To describe it as ‘not integrated’ is unfair and doesn’t reflect the reality of the people who live here.”
“Comments like these are irresponsible — they add fuel to the fire and encourage more hate and discrimination. Politicians have a duty to unite us, not divide us.”
Known for pioneering a sound that blended reggae, dancehall and bhangra, Apache Indian (real name Steven Kapur) is one of the most successful and influential multicultural artists to emerge from the UK. His career and community work stand as living proof of the strength that comes from Handsworth’s diversity.
“Handsworth has always been a melting pot — Caribbean, Asian, white, African — we’ve all lived side by side for generations,” he said. “It’s where reggae met bhangra, where British-Asian and Black communities came together to create something unique — including my own music.”
“Integration doesn’t mean everyone looks the same — it’s about connection, respect, and understanding. That’s exactly what Handsworth stands for.”
Calling for a more responsible tone from national leaders, Apache Indian said the focus should be on learning from communities like Handsworth, not disparaging them:
“Instead of dividing people with comments like that, we should be learning from places like Handsworth — where diversity actually works.”
“Handsworth gave birth to new sounds, new cultures, and new generations who are proud to be British. That’s the real story here.”
