Lewisham Council invites community groups to apply for Tamil Heritage Month grants
Tamil Heritage Month is celebrated each January and provides an opportunity to recognise and celebrate the rich history, culture, language, arts and traditions of the Tamil community. With Tamil being the fourth most widely spoken language in Lewisham, the month plays an important role in celebrating the contribution Tamil communities make to local life in the borough.
The funding is available to support community-led events and activities that bring people together, promote cultural understanding and showcase Tamil heritage to residents across Lewisham.
Previous celebrations have included cultural performances, educational workshops, community gatherings and activities linked to Thai Pongal, the traditional Tamil harvest festival.
Highlights included the Marapu Thingal celebration at St Mark’s Church, a Bharathanatyam Pongal Showcase at Goldsmiths Community Centre, performances at Lewisham Shopping Centre, and celebrations at Lewisham Sivan Temple.
Councillor Tam, Cabinet Member for Communities, Sanctuary and Healing, said:
"Tamil Heritage Month is a chance to celebrate the rich culture, history and traditions of Tamil communities across our borough who have made Lewisham their sanctuary and home, with Tamil being our borough's fourth most widely spoken language. These grants will be awarded to local groups to lead celebrations that bring people and families together, build community and solidarity, and reach wider audiences."
"We are proud of Lewisham's multiculturalism and how Tamil culture and communities have deeply shaped our borough. For our second-year programming Tamil Heritage Month, I encourage community and grassroots organisations, faith groups and local networks to apply and be part of this exciting programme!"
Events funded through the programme will form part of Lewisham's wider programme of Tamil Heritage Month celebrations in January 2027, helping residents learn more about Tamil culture and celebrate the borough's diversity.
If your group is interested in applying, find out more about the fund and how to apply.