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Since 2020, South Asian Heritage Month seeks to commemorate, celebrate, and explore the rich tapestry of diverse South Asian cultures, histories, and communities, demonstrating the continued connection between the heterogenous heritage and cultures of South Asia with the UK.
South Asian Heritage Month runs from 18th July, the date that the Indian Independence Act of 1947 gained royal assent from King George VI, and ends on 17th August. The 17th August is the date that the Radcliffe Line was published, establishing the borders between India, West Pakistan, and East Pakistan – now Bangladesh. The dates not only signify the influence of Britain within the South Asian region, but respects the traditions of the South Asian calendars, falling over the main monsoon month, Sawan, and including several independence days.
The theme of this year’s South Asian Heritage Month is 'Roots to Routes', inviting reflection on how people’s ancestry, chosen paths, and social experiences have fostered growth, connections, and evolutionary identities. The theme encourages conversations about migration, shared histories and culture, and traditions. It is also an opportunity to celebrate the ways in which the journeys of South Asian communities have shaped culture in the UK.
From Sigiriya Lion Rock, an UNESCO World Heritage site, to the Paro Taktsang monastery (Tiger’s Nest Monastery) in Bhutan, a holy place of pilgrimage for Buddhists, scan the QR codes on posters across campus to unearth fascinating stories behind world-famous monuments in South Asia.
