South Asian Heritage Month

We are proud to honour our residents of South Asian heritage by celebrating their history, culture, and impact in the community.

South Asian Heritage Month 2026 takes place from Wednesday 1 to Friday 31 July.

This year’s theme is Unity in Diversity.

Book displays

Throughout July, our libraries are showcasing a selection of fiction, memoirs, cultural commentaries and more that explore the stories, voices, and contributions of the South Asian community.

Visit your local library or explore the collections online.

Dance workshops

On Sunday 26 July, our Arts team is hosting free dance workshops at Orleans House Gallery as part of this year’s High Tide Festival. Join us in celebrating South Asian heritage, culture and storytelling.

Local entrepreneurs

Last year, we shared stories of South Asian people who live, work and run businesses in Richmond upon Thames.

Listen to their stories, the services they offer and how their heritage has shaped their work.

Qadir Jhatial and Sadqain Riaz

In 2025, Orleans House Gallery invited everyone to rethink our relationship with nature through a multicultural lens. Hear from Qadir Jhatial and Sadqain Riaz, whose cross-cultural project explored the journeys of Pakistan’s rivers.

Shilpi Deb

Hear about local artist Shilpi Deb’s ‘Roots to Routes’ story.

Tell us your plans

If you are hosting a South Asian Heritage Month event, please email details to communitynews@richmond.gov.uk so we can include it in our schedule.