The University of West London (UWL) has awarded chef, restaurateur, and alumna Dipna Anand an Honorary Doctor of Letters for her contribution to the culinary world.
Dipna’s grandfather opened the first Brilliant Restaurant & Nightclub Hotel in Nairobi, Kenya, in the 1950s. His original recipes, cherished and meticulously passed down, still grace the menu of her iconic family-run restaurant, The Brilliant in Southall, established by her father, Gulu, in 1975. Co-owned by Dipna, The Brilliant specialises in Punjabi cuisine with unique Kenyan influences. It has earned a reputation for excellence, drawing diners from all over the world, including His Royal Highness the King, who has famously declared it his favourite curry house.
In 2023, Dipna expanded her culinary empire by launching Dipna Anand Kitchen and Bar at Unity Place in Milton Keynes in collaboration with Compass Group, following her hugely successful popup restaurant, Dipna Anand at Somerset House. The restaurant offers authentic Punjabi and South Indian dishes, alongside modern favourites. Dipna’s expertise has also led to her collaboration with Compass Group as the brand chef for their Punjabi food range. Brilliant Punjabi food trucks are a much-loved sight at popular sporting events at major venues.
At The Brilliant School of Cookery Dipna teaches the art of Punjabi cuisine and culinary traditions. She has authored three successful cookbooks, which include recipes that showcase Indian, British, and global inspirations. A regular on ITV’s Saturday Morning with James Martin, Dipna often appears alongside her father, Gulu.
“An alumna of the University of West London, Dipna continues to engage with the university by guest lecturing in Hospitality, Catering, and Food Studies,” said Associate Pro Vice-Chancellor and Dean of London Geller College of Hospitality and Tourism James Edmunds before presenting Dipna with her award. “She also enjoys judging and participating in a range of university competitions, including the Junior Chefs Academy on a Saturday morning.”
“It was at the University of West London where I completed both my degree and my masters, and it was here that I first found my voice and confidence as a chef, restaurateur, and author,” said Dipna as she accepted the award.
“The education I received went far beyond the kitchen. It taught me about leadership, innovation, and most importantly, about the food and the power it has to bring people together. My time at this university gave me the skills and the courage to dream big, push boundaries, and stay true to who I am.”
