Oli Khan MBE, FRSA, PHF, is a celebrated British Bangladeshi entrepreneur, culinary artist, and philanthropist who has made an indelible mark in the catering industry and beyond. Known for setting the Guinness World Record for the largest onion bhaji at 175.48 kg (386 lb) in February 2020, Oli Khan’s achievement became a source of pride for the Asian community worldwide. His culinary prowess, combined with his dedication to social causes, has earned him widespread recognition.
Oli Khan’s career is marked by a series of leadership roles and community contributions. He is the founder and president of the Moulvibazar District Council-UK (MDC) and has been a key figure in the UK-Bangladesh Catalyst of Commerce and Industry (UKBCCI), where he serves as a director and president of the London Region. As the former Secretary General of the Bangladesh Caterers Association (BCA), he has played an instrumental role in advancing the interests of the British Bangladeshi catering community. Additionally, he is the founder of Oli’s Foundation-UK, which focuses on charitable endeavors, and the British Bangladeshi Business Forum.
A long-time member of the Rotary Club, Oli Khan was honored as a Paul Harris Fellow in 2022. His extensive involvement in charitable activities includes delivering hot meals to over 20 hospitals during the COVID-19 pandemic and organizing a free medical camp in Moulvibazar, Bangladesh, in partnership with his nephew, Dr. Nafi Islam. These acts reflect his commitment to improving lives both in the UK and Bangladesh.
Oli Khan’s efforts have not gone unnoticed. In 2014, he was made a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts (FRSA), and in 2022, he was awarded the prestigious Member of the British Empire (MBE) title by King Charles III for his outstanding contributions to social development and welfare. His achievements were further celebrated with a live broadcast of his world record-breaking onion bhaji on BBC TV.
Born in Pathantula village, Moulvibazar, Bangladesh, Oli Khan’s family instilled in him the values of hard work and service to others. His father, the late Al-haj Ayub Ali Khan, was a respected businessman and community activist. Oli Khan carries on this legacy, serving as a proud ambassador for the Bangladeshi community in the UK.
Through his work, Oli Khan has emphasized the importance of hard work, setting clear goals, and giving back to the community. He remains an advocate for the development of Bangladesh and is committed to representing the best of both his Bangladeshi heritage and British identity.