Coinciding with South Asian Heritage Month (SAHM) and in recognition of this year’s theme ‘Root to Routes’, IWM is highlighting activities taking place across IWM sites, which aim to celebrate and honour South Asian stories, perspectives and voices.
At IWM North, two major exhibitions are currently open to the public:
Chila Welcomes You | Until 31 August 2025
This free-entry exhibition invites visitors to step into the imagination of renowned artist Chila Kumari Singh Burman. It features light-based neon artworks, Burman’s first tapestry work, photography explorations, a neon corner shop sculpture, and ready-made treasures from her studio. Together, these works present a personal perspective on the heritage of conflict and the stories of Indian migration to Britain after the Second World War. A self-led family trail is also available, which can be collected at the Welcome and Information desk.
Image: IWM North
Outrageous Women: Marriage, Religion and Culture | Until 31 January 2026
Also free to enter, this exhibition has been created by a local group of Indian Punjabi women known as The Desi Grannies. Inspired by Chila Welcomes You, the display explores family, marriage, religion, and the role of women within their culture. The artists have transformed the IWM North Waterway space using a dupatta – a long scarf traditionally worn around the head, neck and shoulders – as a canvas. A short film accompanies the display, detailing the creative process behind the exhibition.
Both exhibitions aim to provide visitors with a deeper understanding of South Asian heritage and the contributions of these communities to British history.
The Imperial War Museums (IWM) is calling on members of the public to contribute stories and memorabilia relating to South Asian experiences of the Second World War. The appeal covers both former members of the Armed Forces and civilians from undivided India.
Image: IWM North
One story already featured in IWM’s collection is that of Pilot Officer Sayanapuram Duraiswamy Thyagarajan, known to his fellow fighter pilots as ‘Tiger’ Rajan. His story highlights the significant contributions of South Asian service members during the conflict.
The India’s War collecting project aims to gather further personal stories from service members like Tiger Rajan, as well as uncover new civilian perspectives. The project seeks to amplify under-represented voices and enrich IWM’s collections with accounts of South Asian experiences on both the fighting and home fronts.
Those interested in sharing their stories or memorabilia can find more information on the
Image: IWM North
IWM website. Alternatively, contributions can be sent via email to indiaswar@iwm.org.uk.
