South Asian Heritage Month celebrated at Watersmeet Theatre

Audience members were treated to South Asian poetry, music, and dance on August 8 at the Watersmeet Theatre in Rickmansworth for the event organised by One Vision and Three Rivers District Council.

SAHM runs from July 18 to August 17 to honour, recognise, and appreciate South Asian history and culture.

Lots of people joined in with the dancing. (Image: One Vision)

One Vision’s founder and CEO, Enoch Kanagaraj, and Harjit Singh DL, chair of trustees, both said: “SAHM is a great way to bring everyone together and share our stories.

“Cultural heritage is not just a record of our past, but an inspiration of our future.”

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From 5pm to 8pm performances included Bollywood dance, Qawwali singing, Kathak dancing, traditional Bharat Natyam Bhangra dancing and a panel discussion.

Panel discussion (Image: One Vision)

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.

There were also professional dancers at the event. (Image: One Vision)

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.”

Another performer at the event. (Image: One Vision)

The diversity is something that Cllr Williams focused on too. He said: “Seeing so many wonderful and diverse performances at the SAHM event reminded me what makes the district and its communities great.”

Hertfordshire Police also attended the event and spoke to the community about hate crime awareness.

Chief superintendent and chief of staff Jon Simpson said it was an honour to be part of it.

He added: “Continuing to strengthen our relationship with South Asian Heritage Association and One Vision as well as spending time meeting so many members of the community made for a great evening.

The event was attended by several key community leaders (Image: One Vision)

“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.”