The founder and chairman of London's Blue Orchid Hospitality group has been named Global Entrepreneur of the Year at the British Asian Who's Who Awards 2026.
The award was presented to Tony Matharu at a ceremony attended by leading figures from business, politics, and media. The awards recognised "excellence, innovation, and leadership across the British Asian community".
Mr Matharu was honoured for his "entrepreneurial vision, his leadership in delivering world-class hospitality experiences, and his longstanding commitment to social responsibility, spanning charitable initiatives, educational opportunities, and community development projects".
The awards came in the same week that the Central London Agency - which Mr Matharu is also founder chair- launched the London Sports Festival.
During the festival sports facilities are installed in some of London’s most iconic locations together with urban streets and backwaters. The aim is for workers, residents and visitors to enjoy the capital and build lasting relationships through sport. The festival offers a diverse range of sports including:
- Pickleball in New Street Square, 1 June - 17 July
- Panna Football in The Crescent, 11 June - 17 Sept
- 3x3 basketball, Paternoster Square, 22 July - 9 Aug
- Pickleball and volleyball, Guildhall Yard, 17 - 27 Aug
The British Asian Who's Who Awards 2026 awards also marked the unveiling of the Power 100 British Asians List 2026, celebrating the most influential British Asians. More than 7,000 nominations were received. Among the winners are:
- Manish Tiwari: Founder and Chairman of Here & Now 365, was awarded the Media Leader of the Decade;
- Farhan Farani: Managing director of Farani Taylor Solicitors was ranked in the Top 20 of the Power 100 list;
- Sylvia Perera: Founder and Executive Chef of Colombo Kitchen was honored with the Culinary Innovator of the Year Award for championing authentic Sri Lankan cuisine.
