Meera Syal MBE (born Feroza Syal 27 June 1961 in Essington, near Wolverhampton) is a British Indian comedienne, writer, playwright, singer, journalist and actress. Her Punjabi-born parents came to Britain from New Delhi, and she has risen to prominence as one of the most UK's best-known Indian personalities. She was awarded the MBE in the New Year's Honours List of 1997.
A long-needed, albeit humorous take on 19th century British India. The funny stuff is mixed with a few solid home truths. Meera Syal never disappoints and Jennifer Saunders fills the shoes of the arrogant bureaucrat with vigour and humour. Highly recommended.