In a world often defined by barriers of race, culture, and tradition, Dr. Sanjeev Varghese, widely known as Sanju Baba, has emerged as a unifying force. A Syrian-Orthodox Indian-British socialite and influencer living in Manchester, Sanju Baba’s story is one of relentless determination, breaking stereotypes, and an unwavering belief in his Creator.
From Humble Beginnings to Iconic Achievements
Sanju Baba’s journey from anonymity to fame is a testament to the power of perseverance. Born into a modest family, his early dreams of becoming a fashion designer were hindered by financial constraints and societal opposition. In his deeply conservative religious background, fashion was seen as a frivolity, but his passion never waned.
Moving to the United Kingdom for work in healthcare, Sanju Baba found inspiration in the vibrant fashion culture of Manchester’s Black community. However, his own Asian community’s lack of support forced him to momentarily abandon his dreams. Life dealt him further blows in 2014, when financial losses, workplace harassment, and personal struggles left him contemplating the unthinkable.
But with the support of his mother in India and a close friend in the UK, he found the courage to rebuild his life. Turning adversity into opportunity, he began to champion multiculturalism and diversity through his unique fashion sense and community work.
The Rise of a Multicultural Icon
Sanju Baba’s journey to recognition began with his bold embrace of fashion as a means of self-expression and cultural promotion. His trailblazing efforts led to numerous accolades, making him the first Indian male to receive awards from diverse communities, including Pakistani, Scottish, African, and international organizations.
Notable awards include:
1. Fashion Icon 2016, in the Pakistani Community Centre Manchester UK and I became the first Indian to receive any award by the Pakistani community.
2. Recieved Well dressed Fashion Icon Oracle Award 2016 at Dewsbury, UK
3. Appreciation Award 2016 for contribution to Multiculturalism & Diversity in Society, presented by Lord Nazir Ahmed at the House of Lords, London.UK
4. Beffta Award 2016 for Multiculturalism . London .UK
5.Best dressed Male at event Fashion & Beauty Awards 2017 at Manchester UK.
6. International Achievers Awards 2017 for Goodwill Ambassador of the year for charitable works at London. UK.
7. Beffta Award for outstanding contribution to the community 2018 at London UK.
8. AAA Success Award 2018 for Community Contributions at Leicester. UK.
9.Good Will Ambassador Award 2018 for my work for Multicultural & Diversity Society.
Presented by RC entertainment, TV 49,Pakistani community Manchester UK.
10. Special Honorary Beffta Award 2018 at London UK.
11. Representative as a Good Will Ambassador 2019 for PDM Modelling company .London UK.
12. Oracle Inspirational Personality of the year 2021. Dewsbury. UK.
13.Fashion Art Media Scottish Award 2021 for International Fashion Icon of the year 2021, Aberdeen Scotland.
14. Antoin Apkom Achievement Foundation Award for Inspirational Role Model of the year 2021 by Lord Mayor Deepak Bajaj. Leicester UK.
15.Nollywood,Entertainment & Leadership (NELAS) African Award for Leadership for outstanding contribution to the community 2021. London UK.
16. Ganap Global Achievers Award for International Fashion Icon of the year 2021-2022, Manila Philippines.
17.Received Honorary Doctorate Award 2022 for Social work by NGO American International University) New Delhi India.
18.Received Mahatma Gandhi Nobel peace award & Proud Indian Parliament Award 2022, New Delhi India.
19.Received Certificate of Appreciation in recognition of my service, dedication, contribution & efforts for multiculturalism 2022, New Delhi, India.
I was a guest of honour of the Award show which held in Constitution Club of India. Rafi Marg New Delhi India on 14th of May 2022.
20. Recieved certificate of Appreciation 2022 for my contribution to Multiculturalism by Book of World Records London UK.
21.Front cover page Model for Oracle magazine 2020 Huddersfield UK
22. Front cover page Model for Dutch Magazine Sara Star 2022.Holland.
23. Front cover Page Model for Scottish magazine Art Media and Fashion 2022.
24. Recieved International Leadership Mind Ambassador Nigerian Award 2022 for Best Outstanding Innovative Male Model of the year 2022, from LMA Award organisation Nigeria on 24th September 2022.
25. Received Fashion Art Media Scottish Award for International Fashion Brand Endorser of the year 2022 on 29/10/2022 in Aberdeen Scotland.
26. Guest of honour on red carpet as fashion icon & Runway Model for charitable causes, Domestic abuse, Autism, Air Ambulance ,Refuge at Tenbury Wells, Worcester, London, High Wycombe, and other parts of UK.
27. I was a guest of honour and one of the judge of beauty peagant Miss Goddess of the Universe London 2022 on 17th December 2022. London UK.
28. Selected for the International Good Will Ambassador Award 2033 in Dubai on 12th of February 2023.
29. Recieved Life Time Achievement Award from GSTV UK 2023 Manchester UK for myoutstanding contribution to the community. My biography made and published by GSTV UK in thier TV channel.
30. Recieved certificate of honour by Nigerian international LMA Awards 2023 for 20 LMA outstanding men in 2023.
31.Recieved SIMA Goodwill Ambassador Award 2023 in central London UK.
32. Recieved certificate of appreciation as a judge & Jury member of the beauty peagant of UK Philippines Universe 20/7/2023, presented by Wishlinkz Ltd, held at prestigious Lancaster grand theatre UK.
33. Recieved Empowered Modern Fil- European Award 2023 for Social Media Influencer, presented by Wishlinkz Ltd.
34. Recieved Philippines Euroasia Star of the night 2023, presented by Wishlinkz Ltd at Lancaster Grand theatre UK.
35. Recieved African Women Worship Gospel Music Awards 5th edition 2023 for International Fashion Icon Influencer at central London UK.
36. Recieved Oracle Best Media Inspirational Personality of the year 2023 on 11/11/2023 at Huddersfield UK.
37. Recieved certificate for being a Jury member & Sponsor of the Super Model Universe UK & One heart Fashion Show ,held in the Nave hall on 6/7/2024. Central London UK.
38. Recieved A1 TV UK International award for the outstanding performance & efforts in the serving the world in the development, Humanitarian & peace around the world.Award presented by ( World Meet organisation) at 5th world meet 2024 at Crystal Suite, Manchester
39.Recieved Social Media Influencer Award presented by Empowered Modern Global Awards on 30/11/2024 (Wishlinkz Ltd Philippines) at Millennium Hotel Gloucester London UK.
40. Recieved Leags Award, Special recognition for outstanding contribution to the fashion and Humanitarian Global Stars 2024 by Liberia African organisation in central London UK.
His influence extends beyond fashion. As a goodwill ambassador, charity worker, and multicultural promoter, Sanju Baba has reshaped perceptions of male fashion and fostered inclusivity in spaces that once excluded him.
Breaking Barriers and Shaping Society
Sanju Baba’s advocacy has challenged entrenched societal norms about male fashion. From being ridiculed to becoming a trendsetter, he has redefined the boundaries of masculinity in fashion. His work has encouraged men to embrace style as a form of self-expression, dispelling the stigma that fashion is solely a woman’s domain.
His platform also amplifies humanitarian causes, from supporting victims of domestic abuse to raising awareness about autism. His presence as a guest of honor, runway model, and beauty pageant judge has brought attention to crucial social issues, further cementing his role as a cultural ambassador.
Faith and Resilience: The Cornerstones of Success
Central to Sanju Baba’s success is his unwavering faith in God and his belief in the transformative power of honesty and dedication. “If you are honest and have trust in your Creator, He will never let you down,” he often says.
This belief has been the driving force behind his resilience, enabling him to overcome discrimination, personal loss, and professional setbacks. Today, he stands as a beacon of hope, proving that dreams can be realized at any age and under any circumstances.
A Legacy of Inspiration
Sanju Baba’s story is not just about personal success; it is a narrative of societal transformation. By bridging cultures, advocating for diversity, and breaking stereotypes, he has inspired countless individuals to pursue their dreams fearlessly.
As he continues his journey as a role model, influencer, and inspirational personality, Sanju Baba remains committed to his mission of creating a more inclusive and understanding world. His life is a celebration of resilience, cultural harmony, and the enduring power of dreams.
In a world yearning for unity, Sanju Baba’s story serves as a reminder that with faith, hard work, and dedication, one can transcend barriers and leave an indelible mark on society.
Credits:
Photographer – Marc Driesen ( Belgium)
Outfit Brand
“ELUDDEN”
Fish Sequins Velvet Blazer ( China)
