FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Gerrard India Bazaar BIA Celebrates South Asian Heritage—365 Days a Year Toronto, ON

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Gerrard India Bazaar BIA Celebrates South Asian Heritage—365 Days a Year
Toronto, ON – Friday, May 23, 2025

As South Asian Heritage Month is celebrated across Canada, the Gerrard India Bazaar BIA proudly reminds the city that for them, it’s not just a month—it’s 365 days of culture, colour, and community.

Widely recognized as the birthplace of South Asian culture in Canada, Gerrard India Bazaar has been a cultural beacon for over five decades. From the iconic Naaz Theatre, which first brought the community together through film, to today’s thriving hub of music, food, visual art, and storytelling, the Bazaar has always been a place to feel seen, heard, and at home.

“This year’s celebrations feel like a homecoming,” said Tasneem Bandukwala, Executive Director of the Gerrard India Bazaar BIA. “Whether it’s music, visual arts, or storytelling, we’re bringing artists back to where it all began. The Bazaar is more than just a street—it’s a place where generations of South Asians have felt at home. And we’ll continue to honour that, not just in May, but all year long.”

In honour of South Asian Heritage Month, Gerrard India Bazaar BIA is proud to present a lineup of meaningful and community-driven events:

Artist Spotlights –  Open Mic All Stars | May 30

In collaboration with desiFEST, the Bazaar proudly presents OpenMic All Stars, an evening celebrating the growing South Asian independent artist community at the iconic Lahore Tikka.
Now in its 19th year, desiFEST continues to champion emerging voices and platforms for expression. This lively open mic night will feature live music, amazing food, and incredible performances that showcase the creative pulse of the diaspora.
All are welcome to attend, perform, and be part of this joyful celebration of culture and creativity.

Culture Stories – Big Stories of Little India | Throughout Summer

In partnership with Heritage Toronto, this walking tour series explores the legacy of South Asian migration, entrepreneurship, and activism that shaped Gerrard India Bazaar. Participants will uncover hidden stories, historic landmarks, and the personal journeys that define Little India.

Art Jam on the Street | July 11

The street becomes the canvas! This live public art experience brings together South Asian visual artists to create murals and installations in real time.
Art Jam reflects the vibrancy, resilience, and stories of the community, inviting all passersby to witness and engage with the creative process.

The Gerrard India Bazaar BIA invites all Torontonians to celebrate, support, and immerse themselves in a community that lives and breathes South Asian culture—every single day of the year.

For media inquiries, performance interest, or more information, please contact: socialmedia@gerrardindiabazaar.com