Issue XXVIII, May

The landmark book ‘Desi Queers', by Churnjeet Mahn, Rohit K. Dasgupta and DJ Ritu. It illuminates the lesser-known histories of queer South Asians in Britain – spotlighting contributions, delving into daily lives, and unravelling how they shifted and shaped LGBTQ+ movements and communities from the 1970s through to today.

Remembering: a sweeping exhibition from painter and artist, Arpita Singh – featuring key works from her prolific six-decade career. Arpita’s intimate, deeply layered pieces draw from old memories and personal experiences, with resplendent results. Motherhood, global politics, Bengali folk art and female sensuality are but a few of the notable themes to keep eyes peeled for.

Come Fall In Love, the highly anticipated stage adaptation of Bollywood super-hit ‘Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge’, directed by Aditya Chopra. This joyous, globe-trotting musical is set to run at Manchester Opera House from 29th May to 21st June. A dizzying, exuberant journey through Paris, Rome and Punjab’s iconic yellow mustard fields awaits. Enjoy Tuesday to Thursday performances for just £25 – with code DISHOOM25 at checkout. Tickets are limited, do make haste.

South Asian Sounds, coming to the Southbank Centre from 15th–18th May. It promises some of the biggest names in Indian and Pakistani music (including the nephews – and living legacy – of Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan), as well as cutting-edge new voices, and cross-genre collaborations. Prepare for Qawwali, Gujarati folk, Bhangra and Carnatic delights.

For The Dreamers, an upcoming live interview with filmmaker, DJ, artist, and cultural connector, Almass Badat. Join her and host Sarith Ratnayake on May 15th for an intimate chat about navigating multiple creative roles, staying rooted, creating work that moves culture forward and more. Expect stories, inspiration, and hearty helpings of honest reflection.