As the founder of India Cultural Association (ICA) Vancouver, I am incredibly proud to have supported the initiative by the Province of British Columbia to create a new museum or cultural centre for Canadians of South Asian heritage. This project is a landmark opportunity to celebrate and preserve the rich history, culture, and contributions of South Asians in B.C., and to build a space where future generations can continue to connect with their roots.
Community Engagement Session Success
Amit Phadke (right in black shirt), President of Marathi Society of British Columbia (MSBC) part of the engagement group. Thanks to his support!
Recently, ICA Vancouver hosted an in-person engagement session on September 29, 2024, bringing together voices from across Metro Vancouver’s South Asian community to share their thoughts on what this nuseum or cultural centre should represent. The session began on a positive and spiritual note with a prayer sung by Neeraja Aptikar, a renowned Hindustani vocalist and music teacher in Vancouver. The turnout was tremendous, with attendees offering heartfelt feedback, ideas, and support for this important initiative.
Neeraja Aptikar, famous vocalist & music teacher from Vancouver area singing Ganesh Strotram at Bridge & Engrich Lives Society where the Community Engagement Session took place on Sunday, September 29th
Abhishek Agrawal, one of the session coordinator addressing a engagement group
Vancouver’s South Asian community members expressed the desire for a space that reflects the diversity within the South Asian diaspora, while also serving as a hub for learning, cultural exchange, and celebration. From traditional arts and music to contemporary experiences, the feedback received will play a crucial role in shaping the future of this centre.
Media Coverage by Global BC
Neeraj Kumar, speaking with Global BC News
The significance of this event was also recognized by the media, with Global BC covering the story to help raise awareness about the initiative and the engagement process. This media spotlight underscores the importance of our collective efforts and helps bring greater visibility to the contributions of South Asians in British Columbia. Click here to watch the video (The video will play after the advertisement)
Next Steps: Your Voice Still Matters!
If you were unable to attend the in-person engagement session, your voice can still be heard. The Province of B.C. is continuing to gather feedback from the community, and you can share your thoughts by submitting them online through the official feedback portal. Your input is vital to ensuring that this cultural centre truly represents the diversity and richness of our heritage. Please click here to submit your feedback online.
Building a Legacy Together
As we move forward in this journey, we invite everyone in the South Asian community—and beyond—to be part of this legacy. Whether through sharing your thoughts online or attending future events, your contributions are key to making this vision a reality. We look forward to working together to create a space that honors our history, celebrates our present, and inspires future generations.
I, Neeraj Kumar personally thank everyone who has supported this initiative so far. Together, we are building something truly special for all Canadians of South Asian heritages in BC.