Saturday 25 July, 5.30pm I 90mins I 18+
East London Bengali Heritage Walk by Swadhinata Trust
Meeting Point: Altab Ali Park
Tickets: £10
https://EastLondonBengaliWalk_SAHM26.eventbrite.co.uk
The new East London Bengali Heritage Walk, which covers the south of Commercial Road, an exploration of the untold stories and rich history of the Bengali community in this vibrant area.
Our journey begins with the history of Bengali immigration to East London, tracing back to the lascars (Bengali seafarers) from South Asia. Many Bengalis sought new opportunities and a better life, arriving in London and gradually transforming the East End. Originally a predominantly Jewish neighbourhood, the East End saw a significant demographic shift in the 1980s as the Bengali community grew and established itself.
We will visit pivotal sites of political activism, including the formation of the Bangladesh Youth Movement (BYM), which championed anti-racial awareness and community rights.
By the end of our walk, we hope these ordinary-looking streets will whisper the tales long forgotten, allowing us to discover and celebrate this hidden part of London’s history.
The Swadhinata Trust is a London-based nonpartisan secular Bengali group that promotes Bengali history and heritage among young people.