British South Asians form a large percentage of the UK population, and naturally encompass a significant number of the staff and students represented within the vast community here at the University of Kent. The contributions of these Brits to entertainment, politics, science, sports, and many other areas central to British culture cannot be understated, rather, it is important that we take the time to recognise and celebrate such achievements.
Indeed, one of the core messages behind South Asian Heritage Month is seeking to understand, commemorate, and celebrate the diverse cultures, communities and history that tie the UK and South Asia together.
According to the South Asian Heritage Trust, South Asian Heritage Month encompasses several independence days connected to South Asian countries. The beginning and end dates of SAHM particularly call back to two significant events in 1947; the 18th of July marks the date that the Indian Independence Act gained royal assent from King George VI, whilst the 17th of August marks the date of publication of the Radcliffe Line, which established where the borders between India, West Pakistan, and East Pakistan (now Bangladesh) would be.
The South Asian Heritage Trust celebrates the impact of people with heritage from the following countries: Afghanistan; Bangladesh; Bhutan; India; The Maldives; Nepal; Pakistan; Sri Lanka. Every one of these countries has been hugely impacted by its relationship with Britain, primarily through war, colonisation and, ultimately, via the British Empire, and in turn has had a huge impact on the culture, food, clothing, music, words and overall ambiance of Britain.
In 2025, the theme of South Asian Heritage Month is 'Roots to Routes’, exploring the rich journey of growth, and the evolving connections we make through generations.
Diving deep into the journeys of trailblazing South Asians
In-depth journalism, analysis, and pop culture writing from and about the global South Asian diaspora.
A powerful collection of personal stories, forgotten histories and community memory across South Asian experiences
A platform dedicated to exploring and elevating Desi stories in medicine.
New Lines is an award-winning American magazine for the best ideas and writing from around the world, aiming to make the past relevant and the present grounded in history
Desimag is a cutting edge UK Asian lifestyle magazine
Burnt Roti is a platform for South Asian creatives to showcase their talent, find safe spaces and destigmatise topics around mental health and sexuality, amongst others.
This BBC News article explores why British India was partitioned and the impact.
Explore our recommended reading list, compiled by staff and students at Kent,
Identify as Asian or Asian British in 2024-2025
Identify as Asian in 2024-2025
Identify as Asian *Tier 4 Visa
Are estimated to be from South Asian heritage.
A large proportion of our International Students identify as Asian. The International Student Voices project was a research project led by student researchers with support from the University of Kent and Kent Students’ Union.
The purpose of the project was to understand the experience of international students at the University of Kent and to create a list of actions and recommendations to improve that experience.
The University is assessing the recommendations of that report and building actions into its strategic work moving forward in its 2025-30 EDI Strategy.
Your voice really does make a difference.
South Asian Heritage Week can be a time of celebration, but also highlights injustices, past and present. The increased awareness of racism during South Asian Heritage Week can be challenging. For some, this time may:
You're not alone. Joining a society or network could give you a safe space to be heard and reminds you that you are not alone.
It's not your responsibility to fix racism. Do not put too much pressure on yourself – this is a problem you cannot solve on your own.
The people around you all have a responsibility to make changes to their behaviour.
Use our online reporting tool ‘Report and Support’ to be part of a culture shift and get the support you need.
Student Support and Wellbeing have a free confidential counselling service.
