It must have changed beyond all recognition from the 60's, then. In those days you could rely on Brick Lane for authentic Indian cuisine as eaten by the locals -- no pulao rice, only steamed white, and a huge complimentary dish of onions and fresh chillies. I sincerely hope that what you observed was a one-off; or was a case of misinterpretation -- it sounds so out of character to me.
** Phil.