The programme of activities includes heritage walks
People across Tower Hamlets are invited to participate in a borough‑wide cultural programme supported by Tower Hamlets Council to celebrate South Asian Heritage Month which runs throughout July.
Marked nationally, South Asian Heritage Month (SAHM) honours the histories, cultures, and contributions of South Asian communities to British life.
South Asia is made up of eight countries: Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, The Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka.
People of South Asian heritage make up a significant part of the Tower Hamlets population, with the borough’s Bangladeshi-born population alone being the largest in England and Wales, both in absolute numbers and as a proportion of the population, according to the latest census figures.
The 2026 theme of SAHM is Unity in Diversity, highlighting the shared cultures, histories, and communities of South Asia and its diaspora.
The borough’s programme of activities includes performance, comedy, music, film screenings, heritage walks, talks, and community activity.
Lutfur Rahman, Executive Mayor of Tower Hamlets said: “Tower Hamlets is home to an incredible tapestry of cultures, and we’re proud to celebrate the communities that shape our borough.
South Asian Heritage Month invites everyone to come together, discover the stories and traditions that enrich our shared life, and honour the lasting contributions South Asian communities have made to the UK.”
Cllr Minara Khatun, Cabinet Member for Leisure, Culture and Tourism said: “I’m delighted that Tower Hamlets Council is supporting events across the borough that highlight the powerful influence of South Asian culture on British life. This year’s SAHM theme of Unity in Diversity is reflected across the programme of events. From creativity and education to food, fashion, music, language and enterprise, these contributions continue to enrich our communities and strengthen the vibrancy and diversity of our borough and nation.”
Full listings and details of the SAHM events programme are on the events page of the council website.
Posted on Wednesday 17th June 2026