South Asian Heritage Month dancers
Barnet Council’s Summer of Fun continued as it marked South Asian Heritage Month through a vibrant celebration of the region’s cultures and heritage.
The event at Barnet Multi Cultural Community Centre on Saturday, 10 August saw councillors, council officers, members of Barnet’s South Asian communities, friends, families and others enjoy an afternoon of cultural performances, music, art, delicious food and vibrant festivities.
Run by the council in collaboration with community groups across the borough, the event celebrated the diversity of South Asian heritage, and those who attended had the opportunity to learn more about the South Asian culture through music, dance and traditional arts.
It was one of a number of events held across the borough to mark South Asian Heritage Month, which runs from 18 July to 17 August each year.
The Worshipful Mayor of Barnet, Cllr Tony Vourou, said:
“I was delighted to be able to attend the South Asian Heritage Month event and experience some of the region’s rich and vibrant culture.
“The events held during this month-long tribute have been an opportunity for us all to learn more about, and to celebrate, the huge contribution that South Asian communities have made to our borough.
“As a council, we are proud to recognise the contributions made by all of the diverse communities that make Barnet such a special place to live.”
South Asian Heritage Month was established to commemorate, mark and celebrate South Asian cultures, histories, and communities.
The month seeks to understand the diverse heritage and cultures that continue to link the UK with South Asia.
This year’s theme, ‘Free To Be Me’, encourages people to celebrate the unique identities and voices of people of South Asian heritage.
Nila Patel, Barnet Asian Women’s Association Trustee, said:
“I enjoyed the variety of entertainment consisting of music, singing, dancing, konnakol, spoken word and Bollywood.
“The event was buzzing, with more than 200 people of all ages and communities dressed in vibrant and colourful outfits. Of course, wonderful food in abundance with so much variety.
“There was also an opportunity to partake in my favourite activity, Henna painting. Thank you (to Barnet Council) so much for organising such a wonderful successful event.”