Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Press Release: 21st Annual TD Festival of South Asia Returns to Celebrate Vibrant Culture and Diversity

Toronto, ON (July 4, 2023): The highly anticipated 21st Annual TD Festival of South Asia is set to take place from July 29 to July 30, noon to 11 pm, at Gerrard India Bazaar showcasing the sights, sounds, and tastes of South Asia through a colorful and immersive experience. Presented by Gerrard India Bazaar BIA, this year’s festival promises to be bigger and better than ever before, captivating attendees with a vibrant celebration of music, dance, art, food, and much more.

As one of the largest South Asian Street festivals in the region, the TD Festival of South Asia has become a cherished tradition for locals and visitors alike. With over 250,000 visitors expected to attend, the festival will transport attendees on a journey across South Asia, offering an authentic and captivating experience that highlights the diversity and beauty of the region.

Throughout the festival, attendees will have the opportunity to indulge in a number of activities and attractions. The event will feature an incredible lineup of live performances by over 200 talented artists, showcasing various traditional and contemporary styles of music and dance from South Asia. From mesmerizing Bollywood dances to soul-stirring classical melodies, the stage will come alive with energy and passion. Visitors can also enjoy cultural art and displays, a beer garden, gully cricket, and a Bollywood boulevard. 

The TD Festival of South Asia is not just about performances; it also offers a unique shopping experience. Attendees will have the chance to explore a bustling marketplace brimming with vendors offering a wide array of South Asian crafts, jewelry, fashion, and artworks. From intricately designed garments to handcrafted jewelry, the marketplace is a treasure trove for those seeking one-of-a-kind pieces and cultural artifacts.

Food enthusiasts will also find themselves in paradise as the festival’s food zone tantalizes their taste buds with a delectable selection of South Asian cuisine. Festival-goers will have the opportunity to savor traditional dishes prepared by expert chefs, ensuring an authentic taste of South Asia.

“The Festival of South Asia is a cherished tradition that embodies the heart and soul of Gerrard India Bazaar and our community. It is a testament to the richness of South Asian culture and serves as a vibrant celebration of our heritage. As the Chair of Gerrard India Bazaar BIA, I am immensely proud of how this festival showcases the spirit of multiculturalism, promoting a sense of belonging and understanding among all who attend. We are excited to invite everyone from all walks of life, transcend boundaries, strengthen the bonds, creating lasting memories and foster a sense of unity through the celebration of music, dance, art, and food at the 21st Annual TD Festival of South Asia”. – Chand Kapoor, Chair, Gerrard India Bazaar BIA.

The TD Festival of South Asia is made possible through the generous support of title sponsor TD Bank Group, who shares the vision of promoting cultural diversity and community engagement. Their continued commitment to the festival enables the organizers to create an immersive experience that captivates attendees of all ages and backgrounds.

“The 21st TD Festival of South Asia is set to be an extraordinary event, captivating attendees with its dynamic performances, exquisite cuisine, captivating art, immersive cultural displays, and unique shopping experiences. As we celebrate the resilience, diversity, and cultural opulence of South Asian heritage, this festival not only unites our community but also fuels local economic development. Drawing visitors from near and far, it acts as a catalyst for economic growth, opening doors for small businesses, artisans, and vendors. Its influence expands beyond our neighborhood, contributing to the wider Canadian economy through increased tourism, cultural exchange, understanding and appreciation, and showcasing Canada’s unwavering dedication to inclusivity and diversity. The Festival of South Asia intertwines cultural celebrations with economic prosperity, making it an exceptional and influential event for our community and the Canadian economy as a whole.” – Tasneem Bandukwala, Executive Director of the Festival of South Asia & Gerrard India Bazaar BIA

Admission to the festival is free, ensuring that this cultural celebration is accessible to all members of the community. The TD Festival of South Asia invites everyone to embrace the vibrant and diverse South Asian heritage, encouraging a spirit of unity and understanding.

For more information about the TD Festival of South Asia, please visit www.festivalofsouthasia.ca 

About Gerrard India Bazaar BIA: 

One of Toronto’s oldest BIAs, formed in 1981, Gerrard India Bazaar BIA is the largest main street marketplace of South Asian goods and services in North America. Traditional hospitality abounds here, along with a wealth of exotic delights. Colourful saris, exquisite fabrics, mouth-watering regional delicacies and delightful dining, dazzling jewellery, traditional musical instruments, audio and video entertainment, an artisanal cheese boutique, pet and toy stores, music and dance studios, cafés, pubs and numerous art galleries – all await you at the Gerrard India Bazaar. Gerrard India Bazaar is known for its vibrant nightlife and many festivals, including the annual summer Festival of South Asia, as well as celebrating many cultural holidays throughout the year – Baisakhi, Eid, Diwali, and Christmas. 

Business improvement area (BIA) is a geographic area in a municipality. A BIA board of management is an organization set up to provide certain business promotion and improvement functions within that area. 

Media Contact: Tasneem Bandukwala, Executive Director, Gerrard India Bazaar BIA. gibbia@gerrardindiabazaar.com