Akbar's founder Shabir Hussain is posthumously recognised

Earlier this month, it was announced Mr Hussain, chairman and CEO of Akbar's, had sadly passed away at the age of 56. 

The chain began with just a small 28-seat restaurant in the heart of Bradford in 1995, before expanding to cities including Leeds, Sheffield, Manchester, Newcastle, Glasgow and Birmingham.

Mr Hussain received posthumous recognition at the Prestige Curry Awards, held at the Hilton London Watford earlier this month. 

Asif Iqbal, who runs the Prestige Curry Awards, paid tribute to Mr Hussain.

The Akbar's team accepted a posthumous award in Mr Hussain's memory (Image: The Akbar's team accepted a posthumous award in Mr Hussain's memory) He said: "A visionary and pioneer, Mr. Hussain's influence extended beyond his remarkable success.

"He was known for his humility, kindness and the warmth he shared with everyone he met. 

"Though he recently passed away, his devoted team from Akbar's attended the event to accept his award on his behalf, a testament to his enduring legacy and the impact he made on those around him.

"The Prestige Curry Awards have become a highly-anticipated celebration, honouring not only culinary excellence but also the inspiring stories of individuals who have shaped the industry. 

"In recognising the late Mr Hussain, we feel that we celebrated a truly deserving and remarkable individual whose life and contributions merit wider recognition."

After Mr Hussain died, the great and good paid tribute to the pioneering Bradford restaurateur, who was known as the "King of Curry".

Naz Shah, Labour MP for Bradford West, said: "His entrepreneurial triumph was exporting the best of Bradford's curry scene throughout the country."

Imran Hussain, MP for Bradford East, said Mr Hussain was a friend of "many years".

He added: "Shabir's contribution to Bradford spans decades - a self-made man who always supported, uplifted and provided for his community.

"He worked incredibly hard to build up a successful pioneering business, and received many deserved accolades and awards for his entrepreneurship. 

"It is a magnificent loss, and my thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends and employees.

"While he will be greatly missed by us all, his legacy will remain in Bradford - and beyond."

Fellow Indian restaurants across the Bradford district also paid tribute to Mr Hussain.

Faisal Hussain, owner of Shimla Spice, said: "He was an amazing guy.

"We were really good friends - sharing ideas and willing to help.

"It is a big hole in the hospitality industry to lose such a big name like him."