Tamil Heritage Month
With many in the Tamil community choosing to make Lewisham their home, Tamil is the fourth most widely spoken language in the borough. This celebration acknowledges the contributions of the Tamil community to Lewisham and British culture. Learn more about the national Tamil Heritage Month campaign.
Thai Pongal, also celebrated in January, is a multi-day harvest festival observed by the Tamil community honouring the sun, nature and farm animals for their contributions to a bountiful harvest.
Lewisham Council is proud to support community-led celebrations for Tamil Heritage Month 2026 with small grants of up to £1,000.
The Tamil Heritage Month celebrations will showcase the rich heritage, language, arts, and traditions of British Tamils. These events honour the creativity and contributions of the Tamil community, sharing culture with the wider Lewisham borough. Keep an eye on this page, as it will be updated with additional events over the coming weeks.
Marapu Thingal
The Marapu Thingal celebration include drawing kolams, decorating homes, preparing Pongal, and sharing with neighbours. The event features artistic performances, educational workshops, and cultural displays to help Tamil school students appreciate their heritage and strengthen community bonds.
Saturday 17 January 2026, 10am to 4pm, St Mark's Church, Baudwin Rd.
Bharathanatyam Pongal Showcase
A community-led event by Niruthiya Kalalayam School of Dance, endorsed by Downham Tamil Association, celebrating Tamil Heritage Month in Lewisham. The afternoon features Bharathanatyam and other Tamil dances, speeches on Pongal and Tamil heritage, and South Indian snacks. The aim is to promote cultural understanding and inspire younger generations.
Sunday 11 January 2026, 12 noon to 3pm at Goldsmiths Community Centre.
Tamil Heritage Month Performances in Lewisham Shopping Centre
Experience the rich traditions of South Indian classical arts as dancers and musicians come together to present a captivating program of Bharatanatyam (classical Indian dance), Carnatic music (classical vocal music), and the Veena (a classical string instrument), celebrating Tamil Heritage Month. Rooted in tradition yet vibrant and expressive, the performance weaves graceful movement, lyrical storytelling, and soulful melodies, offering audiences a glimpse into the depth and beauty of Tamil culture and Indian classical heritage. This immersive event welcomes audiences of all ages to celebrate culture, rhythm, and tradition.
Saturday 24 January 2026, 11.30am-1pm, Lewisham Shopping Centre.
London Sivan Natpani Mantram’s Thai Pongal (Harvest Festival) & Tamil Heritage Month
This event highlights Tamil heritage, language, literature, art, and traditions. It includes performances by young children, cultural dances, vocal music, and much more.
Sunday 25 January 2026, 3pm at Lewisham Sivan Temple Main Hall.
Downham Tamil Association's Thai Pongal (Harvest Festival) and Tamil Heritage Month Celebrations
A celebration to showcase Tamil culture, language, and history. The programme includes traditional dance recitals, musical instruments, guest speakers, and talks on the significance of Tamil Heritage Month. Features Bharathanatyam, folk dances, Tamil music, and a traditional vegetarian supper.
Saturday 31 January 2026, 5.30pm to 9.30pm at Goldsmiths Community Centre.