After serving the local community for 16 years, Harman Singh Kapoor announced that his Indian restaurant, Rangrez, located in Hammersmith, London, will shut its doors next month. Kapoor, who manages the restaurant alongside his wife, attributed the closure to escalating operational costs, increasing disturbances, and what he characterized as targeted harassment from individuals he described as being aligned with Pakistan. In a message shared on X, Kapoor stated, “After 16 unforgettable years, I’ve made the difficult decision to close Rangrez restaurant Hammersmith next month.” He elaborated on the challenges he faced, mentioning “ongoing online harassment, repeated disturbances and attacks by Pakistanis” coupled with insufficient support from the Metropolitan Police as contributing factors.

Shift Towards Activism

In light of the closure, Kapoor expressed his intention to shift his focus entirely towards activism. He declared, “Now it’s time for me to dedicate myself fully to activism without distraction. Radicals should keep this in mind: you can disrupt my business, but not my will. I’m coming after you stronger now, with no strings attached.” He took the opportunity to express gratitude to the customers who supported Rangrez throughout the years, stating, “Thank you to every genuine customer who supported us over the years. Grateful always. Thanks. Team Rangrez. Harman Kapoor & family.” His announcement attracted significant attention on social media, with many expressing their regret over the restaurant’s closure, underscoring its positive impact on the community.

Background of Threats and Incidents

Kapoor has publicly addressed threats received by him and his family following his criticism of the Khalistan movement in a social media video. In 2023, he reported that his establishment was targeted by pro-Khalistan supporters shortly after the Indian High Commission in London was vandalized. He expressed concern for his family’s safety, asking rhetorically whether it would take a tragedy for law enforcement to take action. Kapoor claimed that he, along with his wife and children, faced a barrage of death threats, abusive phone calls, and intimidation online, with attackers allegedly urging him to retract his video and shout slogans supporting Khalistan while denouncing India.

Police Response and Ongoing Fear

The UK police stated that they had responded to the incidents, engaging with Kapoor and implementing protective measures, including assessing CCTV footage and providing additional security. However, Kapoor has indicated that despite these measures, his family continues to endure fear as the individuals responsible for the attacks remain unidentified and unpunished. The challenges faced by Kapoor’s family reflect broader tensions involving activism, with ongoing incidents, including vandalism at the Indian High Commission and other reported acts of intimidation against those opposing radical movements.

Closure of a Long-Standing Locale

The impending closure of Rangrez marks the end of a significant chapter in London’s culinary scene, with the establishment having served local patrons for over a decade and a half. The tensions surrounding Kapoor’s views and the subsequent events have kept the situation in public discourse, highlighting the complexities faced by individuals navigating their identities and businesses amid polarized political environments.

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