South Asian Heritage Month celebrated at Watersmeet Theatre

NewsUpdated: 14 August 2023Community and living
Celebrations of South Asian Heritage Month took place at Watersmeet Theatre

An audience was floored by South Asian poetry, music and dance last week at Watersmeet Theatre.

Three Rivers District Council in partnership with One Vision and the South Asian Heritage Association put on a memorable event, in which over 400 tickets were sold, in celebration of South Asian Heritage Month (SAHM).

SAHM is held from 18 July to 17 August to honour, recognise, and appreciate South Asian history and culture, as well as the rich cultural legacy of South Asian countries, and celebrate the existence and legacy of individuals with origins in South Asian countries.

The event at Watersmeet Theatre in Rickmansworth on Tuesday, 8 August, showcased over an hour of performances, such as Bollywood dance, Qawwali, Kathak, traditional Bharat Natyam and Bhangra.

Before the performances began, there were palm readings, stands to promote businesses and initiatives such as Herts Against Hate, and speeches from the organisers as well as from Three Rivers District Council Leader, Cllr Sarah Nelmes, and the Chair, Cllr Phil Williams.

Cllr Nelmes said: “Those from a South Asian background have contributed enormously to the district and across the country. We as a council are proud to be partnered with One Vision and the South Asian Heritage Association to host an event that celebrates the rich history and culture within the diverse South Asian community.”

Cllr Williams added: “Seeing so many wonderful and diverse performances at the SAHM event reminded me what makes the district and its communities great.

“It’s great that we can showcase the arts, culture, and legacy of South Asian people who have made Three Rivers and the UK their home for centuries and contributed to life here.”