Bradford's Millan Centre marks South Asian Heritage Month

Suriya Kahtun’s new life started in the BD8 area, where she ran a corner shop.

She has kept memories of her loved ones and life in Pakistan alive through old photographs of her late mother and father and siblings.

Suriya, who later moved to Heaton, sees Bradford to be a multicultural place where many cultures and traditions are shared. 

Curry plated up at the Millan Centre (Image: Newsquest, Mike Simmonds)

Life here reminds her of growing up with her family in Pakistan, she says. 

When asked what she believes is the key message from her life story, she expressed her belief that people should always unite together and respect and celebrate everyone’s individual traditions and culture.

2023’s theme for South Asian Heritage Month - which takes place every year between July 18 and August 17, ending on the anniversary of Partition - is ‘Stories to Tell’. 

The theme asks people of South Asian heritage to reflect on the moments in their life that have shaped who they are today and the valuable lessons from their experiences.

Saliha Sadiq, co chair and director of mental health at the Millan Centre, pictured with guests of a special South Asian Heritage Month event (Image: Newsquest, Mike Simmonds)

Suriya was among several women who shared their stories over curry and crafting at a special Eid event at the Millan Centre in Manningham.

Most of the ladies brought in cherished photos and shared their pride at sharing tales of their journeys with children and grandchildren.

It comes ahead of a unique event where women and girls from all generations will mark South Asian Heritage Month.

Women shared their stories over curry and crafts at a special Eid event at the Millan Centre in Manningham (Image: Newsquest, Mike Simmonds)

It will take place at the Millan Centre between 12.30pm and 4pm on Saturday, August 5. 

There will be stalls with food and drink, Mehndi, jewellery, sweets and desserts, clothes, face painting, and much more.

The event will cost 50p to enter while tables can be bought for £25.

For more information, guests can contact the centre on 01274 480691.

Saliha Sadiq, co chair and director of mental health at the Millan Centre, said: “We will commemorate South Asian culture, tradition, food and share history on the day.

“This will be through singing, listening to stories from older generations and traditional music. 

“We will enjoy a traditional curry and a variety of other South Asian dishes. Everyone is welcome, we promote inclusion and diversity.”

Elizabeth Helmich MBE, chair of the Millan Centre, said: “I am really pleased that we are able to celebrate South Asian heritage again this year, it is a perfect way for all cultures to celebrate together and learn about each other’s backgrounds.”