Personal Reflections, Hidden Histories, and the Road Ahead My journey into the field of preserving South Asian and Muslim heritage in Scotland was not planned, it began with a question that I often pondered and reflected on, which my then teenage son asked: “Why are we in Scotland?” I did not realise then how deeply […]
Making Heritage Visible via Projects, Partnerships, and Public Impact The year 2026 feels both like a milestone and a moment for quiet reflection. Ten years ago, when I began my journey with Colourful Heritage as Project Officer, I could not have imagined the depth, richness, and emotional resonance of the stories that would unfold before […]
A Story of Female Entrepreneurship, Empowerment and Community The rich tapestry of Scotland’s cultural landscape is woven with the vibrant threads of its South Asian community. Among one of the many most significant contributions of this community are the uncelebrated South Asian fabric shops in Glasgow, primarily run by women mainly in the Southside Govanhill […]
In the heart of the largest community of Indians living outside of India, 312 people at The Peepul Centre, Leicester, and over 1,000 streaming live on YouTube, officially recognized the ill-fated S.S. Tilawa, also described as “The Indian Titanic.” Attendees memorialized the loss of 280 lives, and expressed thanks and recognition for the rescue mission […]
Partnering with South Asian Heritage Month made me realise how much there is to
appreciate in South Asian stories. Speaking to each guest wasn’t just about recounting
memories, it highlighted how the roots of South Asian culture serve as a blueprint for the
world today
The Mayor of Haringey, Ahmed Mahbub (left), with Patrick Maher, local activist The Community Hub in Wood Green, Haringey, (formerly the Asian Centre) celebrated South Asian Heritage month with a historic exhibition, and a meeting with Haringey mayor in a cultural celebration. The exhibition ‘Unsung Heroes of World War I’ featured historical artifacts, photos and news […]
As part of South Asian Heritage Month, I’m sharing a personal story that reflects the complexity of being British Asian—one shaped by migration, identity, and a heritage that spans continents. This is a story of struggle, strength, and the quiet power of rebuilding from loss. Between Two Worlds: A British Asian Story of Identity, Struggle, […]
As the saying goes, “Like mother, like daughter.” In the case of creative talents, this couldn’t be more true. The influence of a mother’s creativity can leave a lasting impact on her children, shaping their own artistic endeavours and passions. In this journal I explore the profound impact my mother’s creative legacy has influenced me and how Sohavi was truly born. Roots to routes explores my late mothers life journey from birth in Kenya to India as a teenager and eventually returning to Kenya in her 20’s , to marry my father Sardar Tirlochan Singh Dhamu, to emigrate to London from Nairobi in October 1973 and live out the rest of her life. Despite experiencing loss and trauma, she endured difficulties n her younger years and made the best of her life in my fathers trusting hand, he led her to a new life in London.
Growing up in Wolverhampton, Sundays were more than just a day of rest, they were pivotal in shaping how I understood my role, my heritage, and ultimately, my identity as a British South Asian woman. In our home on a Sunday, after a morning visit to the temple in Willenhall, we all looked forward to […]
Pitzhanger Manor & Gallery in Ealing, London, came alive with colour, rhythm, and creativity as visitors gathered to mark this year’s South Asian Heritage Month theme, Roots to Routes. Pitzhanger’s special Thursday Late event offered a vibrant mix of food, conversation, dance, and art, creating a space for communities to connect and celebrate. A highlight […]
South Asian Heritage Month dates changed to "July" from 2026 — Learn more here →
