We’re celebrating South Asian Heritage Month in Birmingham by connecting with its theme, Unity in Diversity, reminding us that while South Asian communities are connected by shared histories, they are also wonderfully diverse. Across languages, faiths, traditions, cultures and lived experiences, there is no single South Asian story. Instead, there are countless stories that continue to shape Britain and the world today.
Throughout South Asian Heritage Month, our programme celebrates the richness of South Asian heritage by creating spaces for conversation, creativity, wellbeing and learning, while recognising the many different voices, perspectives and experiences that make our communities so vibrant.
Events Programme
We begin the month with Chai and Chat: Women and Leadership on 16 July, an evening of open conversation exploring what leadership means for women from South Asian communities. Hosted by Sampad Chair Dr Niti Pall, the panel brings together Anita Bhalla OBE, Professor Hanifa Shah OBE and Surwat Sohail, who will share their personal journeys, the barriers they have overcome and the moments that have shaped their careers.
For July’s Midday Mantra, happening on 18 July, contemporary sitarist Tommy Khosla performs alongside Nina Harries and Nirmal Chohan. Currently studying under Anoushka Shankar and Ricky Romain, Khosla’s performances include collaborations with the London Philharmonic Orchestra, playing Glastonbury and the Royal Albert Hall. Khosla’s work continues to push the boundaries of the sitar, reshaping its narrative in contemporary music.
Our Migration Stories: Stratford Road Walking Tour explores another dimension of heritage. Stratford Road has welcomed generations of migrant communities, each contributing their own cultures, memories and traditions to Birmingham’s story. Walking together through these streets, participants discover how diversity has shaped the city we know today. The tour reminds us that migration is not simply part of Birmingham’s past but that it continues to influence its identity, creativity and sense of community.
Community Wellbeing
Throughout the month, Sampad is working with healthcare partners including Midlands Metropolitan University Hospital, Moseley Hall Hospital and with Black Country Health Care Foundation Trust, delivering creative activities for NHS staff. These sessions offer opportunities to pause, reflect and experience the benefits that arts and creativity can bring to wellbeing.
Artist and Professional Development
South Asian Heritage Month also marks the launch of applications for the Sampad Young Producers Training Opportunity 2026.
The programme gives young people aged 18–21 the chance to work alongside Sampad’s team to plan, programme and deliver a live event for their peers. Along the way, they’ll develop skills in producing, marketing, budgeting and audience development while bringing their own ideas and perspectives to life.
By investing in young producers, we’re supporting a new generation of cultural leaders whose diverse experiences will shape the future of South Asian arts and heritage.
Sampad’s programme reflects the spirit of Unity in Diversity, bringing together established leaders and emerging voices, contemporary artists and local histories, healthcare staff and communities, connected through creativity.
We hope you’ll join us for South Asian Heritage Month in Birmingham as we celebrate the people, stories and traditions that continue to enrich our city and beyond, proving that our differences are not what divide us, but what make our communities stronger.