About
PASCO
Building unity, culture, and support for our community
Our Mission
PASCO connects, supports, and celebrates the South Asian community in Portsmouth through cultural events and shared experiences.
Our Vision
To build an inclusive and vibrant community that celebrates and preserves South Asian Indian culture while fostering unity and connection across Portsmouth.
Our Values
We believe in bringing people together and creating a welcoming and inclusive space where everyone feels connected, valued, and supported.
Our Story
In May 1979, Mr. Gurnam Singh Dhillon and his wife moved from London to Portsmouth after purchasing a Post Office business in Stamshaw. They relocated with their children, beginning a new chapter for their family. Life in Portsmouth during the early 1980s was very different from the diverse and multicultural environment of London. At the time, there were very few ethnic minority communities in the city, particularly from the Sikh community, and the family faced significant racism during the early years of running their business.
While living in London, Mr. Dhillon had been actively involved in several community organisations, including the Indian Workers Association and the British branch of the Indian Progressive Writers Association. Through these experiences, he understood the importance of community representation and support networks. When he arrived in Portsmouth, it became clear that the South Asian community needed an organisation that could represent its interests and provide a unified voice when engaging with local institutions such as the Police and the Council.
continued...
A few months after settling in Portsmouth, a chance meeting with Mr. Kapil Goyal at a local Cash & Carry sparked an important conversation. Both men recognised the need for an organisation that would bring people together, represent the interests of the South Asian community, and create opportunities for social connection while preserving cultural traditions.
In March 1980, the first meeting was held above Mr. Dhillon’s Post Office. Those present included Mr. Gurnam Singh Dhillon, Kapil Goyal, Surendra Zaveri, Praful Thakar, Dr. Ramesh Patel, Rahi Bains, Baldev Laly, Robert Fazal, Mr. Nadeem, Laxmi Das and Malkit Babra. There may have been others present too, although memories have faded with time. From that meeting, the Portsmouth Asian Social & Cultural Organisation (PASCO) was officially formed.
continued...
The enthusiasm and dedication of the founding members quickly became evident. Within just a few months, PASCO organised its first major cultural event in June 1980 — a concert at the Mountbatten Centre featuring the popular band Alaap. The organisation received a grant of £850 from the council, although the band’s usual fee was around £2,000. Thanks to Mr. Dhillon’s connection with lead singer Channi Singh, the band agreed to perform for £750. Tickets were priced at £5, and the event attracted around 400 people, not only from Portsmouth but also from Southampton and other parts of Hampshire. The success of this event firmly established PASCO within the community and marked the beginning of its continued growth.
Over the years that followed, PASCO organised a wide variety of events and initiatives that celebrated culture, encouraged community engagement, and supported charitable causes. These included Ghazal evenings, poetry symposiums, coach trips, fitness and yoga classes, and vibrant celebrations of Diwali, Holi and Vaisakhi. Talent shows and fundraising events also became an important part of PASCO’s activities. With the support of a £13,000 council grant — secured through the efforts of Mr. Dhillon and Dr. Patel — PASCO was able to expand its community work even further.
continued...
The organisation also played a significant role in promoting cultural education. For many years, Saturday language classes were held, teaching Hindi (led by Mr. Goyal), Gujarati (taught by Mrs. Indu Patel), and Punjabi (taught by Mr. Dhillon). PASCO has also consistently supported Navratri Garba celebrations, helping to preserve and share important cultural traditions with the wider community.
Like many community organisations, PASCO has faced challenges over the years. Funding opportunities have reduced, community needs have evolved, and many younger generations have moved away or become more integrated into the wider society. Yet despite these changes, PASCO has continued to thrive.
At the heart of its longevity lies a simple but powerful belief, best expressed by its founder Mr. Gurnam Singh Dhillon:
“PASCO is a family.”