Jaag Festival, a unique celebration of Panjabi and Pahari-Pothwari Language and Literature, is scheduled to take place on Saturday, May 13, 2023, from 10 am to 8.30 pm. This festival marks the first-ever of its kind in the world.
With nearly 40 speakers, performers, and facilitators, the event promises to be a day full of engaging talks, workshops, discussions, and performances, all of which will be held in two neighbouring venues on Soho Road: the South and City College Handsworth campus and Handsworth Library, Birmingham.
From translation and writing workshops for all ages to an evening of singing and questioning wedding songs, from exploring the emotion and masculinity of Panjabi music lyrics to children's storytelling and singing sessions, this one-of-a-kind community event offers families a chance to come together and engage in open, cross-generational communication and learning.
The festival features short, half-hour talks by academics, writers, thinkers, and activists scheduled throughout the day, challenging assumptions, and broadening perspectives.
Jaag Festival aims to connect and collaborate with others who share a passion for Panjabi and Pahari-Pothwari language and literature. It offers an inclusive space to celebrate, ask questions, critique, and learn from each other.
The full programme will be revealed in the coming weeks.
Catherine West MP, Labour appears on BBC TV's Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg in London, Britain, May 10, 2026. Jeff Overs/BBC/Handout via REUTERS
