July marks South Asian Heritage Month, celebrating the histories, cultures and contributions of people with roots in India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bhutan, Afghanistan and the Maldives.
Throughout the month, organisations and communities across north east London will be hosting events that showcase the rich diversity and heritage of South Asian communities.
Take a look below to find out what’s happening near you and how you can get involved.
Newham
- South Asian Summer– throughout the month; Theatre Royal, Stratford East
A vibrant annual cultural festival featuring a jam-packed schedule of bold theatre, comedy, live music, and free DJ nights. - South Asian Scratch Night – 9 July, 7-9pm; Theatre Royal, Stratford East
An evening showcasing emerging South Asian artists, performers and creatives as they share new work, ideas and stories with local audiences. - Thirukkural – The Ancient Tweet – 11 July, 11-12pm; East Ham Library
An interactive session exploring the Thirukkural, one of the world’s oldest works of literature, and its continued relevance to modern life and society. - I Was Born Here, Shahed Saleem: Meet the Artist – 11 July, 6-8pm; V&A East Storehouse. An opportunity to hear from architect and artist Shahed Saleem as he discusses identity, heritage and the influence of South Asian culture on architecture and public spaces.
Redbridge
- Roots to Rise by Nandita Shankardass – 26 & 26 July; Ken Aston Square & Ilford Town Centre. An outdoor dance performance blending South Asian and contemporary dance styles to tell stories of heritage, identity and belonging.
- Choogh Choogh – 18 July, 12pm and 2pm; Redbridge Central Library.
A family-friendly dance and theatre performance that takes audiences on an imaginative train journey through India, celebrating South Asian culture through music, storytelling and movement.
Barking & Dagenham
- South Asian Heritage Month: Equality in Diversity – 19 July, 12pm; Women’s Museum, Barking. A community event exploring this year’s South Asian Heritage Month theme through cultural activities, discussions and shared experiences, celebrating the diversity of South Asian communities.
Tower Hamlets
Tower Hamlets is hosting an extensive programme of events throughout South Asian Heritage Month. Activities include film screenings, theatre, comedy, music and dance performances, heritage walks exploring South Asian history in East London, talks, and events celebrating South Asian food traditions and culture.
- Highlights include screenings of Body of Our Own and July Women, Bengali music and poetry performances, and guided walks exploring the legacy of Bengali communities in the borough. Full details and booking information can be found on the Tower Hamlets South Asian Heritage Month webpage.
