Celebrating South Asian Festivals in the Workplace this March

Author: Mandeep Chohan

image of several peoples hands in the air with lots of powder paint colours. Yellow, red, orange and green        image of candle lantern and moon ornament on sand with the sun setting in the background

March is a month rich in cultural and religious significance, particularly for Muslim, Sikh and Hindu communities. This year, all three religions will observe major celebrations in the same month due to the alignment of the lunar-solar calendar. As workplaces become increasingly diverse, it is important to recognise and celebrate the traditions that matter to employees. This March, three major South Asian festivals offer an opportunity for employers to foster inclusivity and cultural appreciation.

Ramadan: A month of fasting and reflection
Ramadan is considered the holiest month in Islam, observed from 28th February until 30th March through fasting from dawn to sunset, increased prayers, and acts of charity. As an employer, supporting Muslim employees during Ramadan can be as simple as:

  • Offering flexible work schedules to accommodate fasting and prayer times.
  • Creating quiet spaces for prayer and reflection.
  • Being mindful of scheduling lunch meetings or events that involve food.
  • Encouraging open conversations to foster understanding among colleagues.

Chet: The Sikh New Year
Chet (also referred to as Hola Mohalla) marks the beginning of the Sikh calendar on the 14th of March, signifying new beginnings and spiritual renewal. While not as widely known, it remains a significant occasion for Sikhs as it is considered the day that Sikhism was created. Employers can acknowledge Chet by:

  • Wishing Sikh colleagues, a happy and prosperous new year.
  • Encouraging learning about Sikh traditions and history.
  • Sharing diverse foods and recipes during lunches.

Holi: Festival of Colours
Holi, a significant Hindu festival celebrated on 14th March, is celebrated with vibrant colours, music, and festivities, symbolising the triumph of good over evil and the arrival of spring. Ways to bring the spirit of Holi into the workplace include:

  • Having a colour-themed dress day or virtual celebrations.
  • Hosting an educational session on the significance of Holi.
  • Encouraging employees to share their personal Holi experiences.


Recognising and celebrating diverse festivals creates a sense of belonging and inclusivity. It fosters a respectful and culturally aware workplace, ultimately improving employee morale and strengthening workplace relationships. By acknowledging any of these spiritually significant events, organisations can demonstrate their commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion while allowing your employees to bring their whole selves to work.

Below are some events happening around the region and helpful resources to support you and your employees during this spiritual month:

Events

Resources