NKS Legends of South Asian Heritage Project

The heritage project aims to illuminate the inspiring stories of prominent South Asian individuals whose contributions have left an indelible mark on Scottish society. Through meticulous research and innovative presentation, we seek to showcase their life histories and underscore their invaluable role in shaping Scottish heritage. By doing so, we aim to inspire current and future generations of South Asian descent while raising greater awareness among a broader audience about the deep-rooted connections between Scotland and South Asia.

The primary objective of our project is to highlight the unique stories of these legends and their profound impact on Scottish society. By documenting their achievements in a simple and accessible format (a film), we hope to underscore the vital role played by South Asian communities in enriching Scotland’s cultural and economic landscape. Our storytelling efforts will culminate in the creation of a film and an exhibition, with potential for digital dissemination to maximize global outreach.

The three part-time heritage project officers from Indian, Pakistani, and Bangladeshi backgrounds, have each been tasked with engaging their respective communities. Through focus groups and community consultations, the chosen legends will be identified, and research initiatives will be launched in partnership with local libraries, museums, universities, and community organisations. Training sessions will be provided to equip participants with the necessary research and documentation skills, with a focus on enhancing photography techniques to capture the essence of each legend’s story.

While formal partnerships will not be established, our project will seek to cultivate collaborative relationships with relevant agencies, including heritage institutions, libraries, museums, universities, and local communities. By leveraging these partnerships, we aim to enrich the depth and scope of our research efforts while promoting a sense of shared ownership and collective responsibility for preserving South Asian heritage in Scotland.

Humera Adnan
Heritage Project Officer

Gian Kaur
Heritage Project Officer

Sadia Shah
Heritage Project Officer