Sake Dean Mahomed Biography 
Sake Dean Mahomed was a Bengali Anglo-Indian traveller & writer, also known as surgeon and entrepreneur. He was also the first Indian to publish a book in English, when he published the book – “The Travels of Dean Mahomed, a native in Patna in Bengal, Through Several Parts of India, While in the Service of the Honorable The East India Company” in 1838. It was the first attempt by an Indian author to write a full-fledged book in English, and it was an autobiography. As a part of his tours, he introduced Indian cuisine and shampoo baths to Europe. He is also famous for the book, Shampooing, or, benefits resulting from the use of the Indian Medicated Bath. Left India at a young age of 25, he used that culture, and some clever publicity, to create a life for himself in England.
Sake Dean Mahomed was born in 1759 in Patna, then part of the Bengal Presidency. His father, who belonged to the traditional Nai (barber) caste, was in the employment of the East India Company. At a young age, Mahomed learnt alchemy and understood the techniques used to produce various alkali, soaps and shampoo. He lost his father at a young age, and he grew up in Patna. He joined East India Company at the age of 11. Later he served in the army of the British East India Company as a trainee surgeon. Mahomed remained with Captain Baker's unit until 1782, and accompanied his captain to England, who he regards as his best friend.
He was a traveller who published many books such as The Travels of Dean Mahomet in 1794. In 1810 he moved to London opened the first Indian restaurant in England - the Hindoostane Coffee House. This venture was ended due to financial difficulties later. He also introduced the practice of champooi or "shampooing" (or Indian massage) to Europeans.
Published: October 16, 2018
Updated: October 16, 2018
