Explainer

What is South Asian Heritage Month?

South Asian Heritage Month aims to commemorate, mark and celebrate the history and culture of British South Asian people.

Held between Monday 18 July to Wednesday 17 August 2022, the month seeks to create an open dialogue so people can better understand diversity in Britain.

The British South Asian community is over three million people strong, with at least one out of every 20 people in the country having South Asian heritage.

The month is a grassroots movement, which originated in July 2020.

South Asian Heritage Month: Using nature to explore heritage
South Asian Heritage Month: the refugee doctor who fled with £100 in his pocket
Credit: PA

Why is it important to recognise South Asian Heritage Month?

It gives people of South Asian Heritage the opportunity to reclaim their history and identity by telling their own stories, as well as showing what it means to be South Asian in the 21st century.

It also allows people to look to the past to understand how Britain became the diverse country it is today.

What countries make up South Asia?

South Asia is formed of eight countries including:

  • Afghanistan

  • Bangladesh

  • Bhutan

  • India

  • Maldives

  • Nepal

  • Pakistan

  • Sri Lanka

South Asian Heritage Month runs from 18 July to 17 August. Credit: PA images

Why is it celebrated between 18 July and 17 August?

South Asian Heritage Month begins on the 18 July which, in 1947, was the day the Indian Independence Act gained royal assent from King George VI.

It ends on the 17 August, which was the the date lawyer, Cyril Radcliffe, published the Radcliffe Line. This was the border between India, West Pakistan and East Pakistan.

The start and end dates show how much influence Britain has had on South Asia over the last few centuries.

The month also coincides with Saravan/Sawan, which is the main monsoon season in the region.

It is the fifth month of the Hindu solar calendar and is devoted to worshipping Lord Shiva.

What is this year's theme?

The month reflects two major anniversaries taking place in 2022:

  • 75th anniversary of the independence of India, Partition, and the creation of Pakistan (later known as East and West Pakistan)

  • 50th anniversary of the expulsion of Ugandan Asians by Idi Amin

Discover more about South Asian Heritage Month here.