South Asian Heritage Month starts on 16 July and is a celebration of the ongoing cultural legacy of the region and the lives of the people of South Asian heritage in Britain today, many of whom live in Calderdale. 

It is an opportunity for us all to celebrate the long and rich history of British Asians and the positive impacts they have within our communities.

This year the month will start with a Heritage Festival, which brings together leading British Pakistani and Indian writers and performers, local businesses and community groups at prestigious venues in Halifax. To find out more and for the full programme of events visit the Verd de Gris website.

Bankfield Museum are marking the occasion with a display of some of the highlights of its collection of South Asian art and cultural objects. These range from intricate hand-stitched textiles to examples of elaborate wedding apparel and ceremonial costumes.

The Museum has also collaborated with Halifax Opportunities Trust and members of the local South Asian community to develop themes and loan contemporary objects which reflect their lives.

From the Asia of the past to modern Calderdale, the exhibition will showcase the beautiful and meaningful objects which characterise the changing face of South Asian heritage. Find out more here.

The libraries are holding some free family workshops on Indian storytelling and dance at Halifax Central Library on Saturday 23 July, 11.30am-12.15pm and 1-1.45pm. Go along and enjoy the graceful and rhythmic movements from traditional ancient dances and understand more about Indian culture with Annapurna Dance.  www.ticketsource.co.uk/calderdalelibraries

To celebrate South Asian Heritage Month the Victoria Theatre is hosting a special evening of comedy featuring some of the best Asian comedians on the comedy circuit today, including Preet Singh, Isma Almas, Imran Yusuf with MC Mickey Sharma. Find out more here.

The full events listings can be found here