British Asian Rugby Association Launches National Lottery Heritage Fund Project

British Asian Rugby Association C.I.C Launches National Lottery Heritage Fund Project:

Beyond the Try Line – Celebrating Community Heritage in Rugby – Launched at the Yorkshire Asian Business Association Awards and Diwali Celebration

The British Asian Rugby Association (BARA) C.I.C is proud to announce the official launch of its landmark National Lottery Heritage Fund project, Beyond the Try Line – Celebrating Community Heritage in Rugby. The announcement was made at the prestigious Yorkshire Asian Business Association (YABA) Awards and Diwali Celebration.

The announcement was made in front of an audience of over 500 attendees and generated significant interest in the project, with many informal discussions taking place throughout the event. Dr Butt recieved a warm and sustained round of applause following his speech.

Marking a significant milestone in BARA’s 20-year journey championing South Asian representation in rugby, this heritage initiative will document, share, and preserve the stories of the trailblazers whose contributions have helped break barriers, strengthen communities, and inspire future generations both on and beyond the field.

Beyond the Try Line will capture the lived experiences, heritage, and achievements of individuals and communities who have shaped the landscape of rugby in Britain. Through oral histories, archival materials, educational resources, and community engagement, the project will ensure these invaluable narratives are safeguarded for future generations.

Dr. Ikram Butt, Founder of BARA, said:

“This project honours the pioneers who paved the way and acknowledges the rich cultural heritage South Asian communities have brought to rugby. We are delighted to celebrate this milestone during BARA’s 20th anniversary year.”

Sharon Kaur Jandu OBE, a key collaborator and supporter of the initiative, added:

“I am incredibly proud to support the launch of this important heritage project. Beyond the Try Line shines a powerful light on the contribution of South Asian communities to rugby, contributions that have too often gone unrecognised. BARA’s work over the past 20 years has been truly inspiring, and this project will ensure that the voices, stories, and achievements of our pioneers are preserved for future generations. It is an honour to collaborate on an initiative that celebrates culture, community, and the spirit of breaking barriers.”

BARA extends its heartfelt thanks to The National Lottery Heritage Fund for supporting this vision, and to Sharon Kaur Jandu OBE and Simmy Sekhon for their invaluable collaboration and leadership throughout the development of this project.

Sincere appreciation is also offered to Julia Lee, whose ongoing support and guidance remain instrumental in shaping Beyond the Try Line.