Introducing South Asian Heritage Month
Hi, I’m Shabana Marshall and I’m a senior lecturer at St Mary’s University’s School of Education (seen here aged 8, in Pakistan, with Lily the goat!). As a British, Muslim, Punjabi, of Pakistani and Indian origin, I was keen to see our university mark South Asian Heritage Month. Together with Obi Oputa, and with the support of St Mary’s Student Union and BAME networks, we have collaborated to compile a short film and a panel event to explore the ways in which South Asian heritage has influenced members of our community.
South Asian Heritage Month was introduced in the UK only last year, the first place anywhere in the world to nationally celebrate South Asian heritage in this way! Inspired by Black History Month and other such awareness months, it runs between 18th July and 17th August. These dates may seem unusual, given they do not reflect months recognised in the western calendar, but many of the countries and religions of South Asia divide their year along different lines! This year, these dates coincide with the month of Savan (5th month in the Hindu calendar) but they are also important dates in South Asian history.
18th July 1947 is the date Indian Independence from British rule was approved by King George VI, whilst 17th August 1947 is the date the Radcliffe Line was published, setting out where the borders of India, West and East Pakistan (now Bangladesh) would be. So, these dates give a small indication of how Britain’s history is very much connected to countries of South Asia.
In our short film, some of our staff and students share their connections to South Asian heritage, and through their family stories throw light on the diverse and complex nature of our personal histories. In our panel discussion on 21st July, the theme of Heritage and Belonging will be explored by members of the SMU staff and student BAME networks.
Please join us to celebrate South Asian Heritage Month. You can get involved by watching our short film, attending the panel event on 21st July, or tweeting your favourite South Asian music, films, recipes, art, authors and so on throughout this month!
Find out more