West End Bollywood Movie Night Celebrates Indian Stories

Geetanjali Joshi moved to Canada four years ago to start a new life, and stumbled upon some enthusiastic Gordon Neighbourhood Volunteers during a community event.

“I was a new immigrant to Canada who came to Vancouver in December of 2019. Prior to moving, I was pursuing my Post doctoral thesis on a Fulbright Grant in Portland State. I had a huge circle of friends there and was looking forward to meeting new people in Vancouver” stated Joshi. Geetanjali started volunteering at Gordon Neighbourhood House to meet new people and restore the sense of community that she was craving.

The non-profit organization has operated in the West End neighbourhood of Vancouver for over 80 years, and hosts a diverse mix of intergenerational programs and initiatives that respond to the needs and challenges of the community.

After volunteering at several events, Geetanjali met many neighbours, made close friends, and felt an increased sense of belonging. Since then, she has received a Neighbourhood Small Grant to host an online art class during the pandemic, co-hosted an in-person Diwali celebration, and most recently joined the organization’s Community Advisory Board.

Last November, Joshi partnered with Gordon Neighbourhood House to host a monthly West End Bollywood Movie Night.

“Bollywood movies are an important fabric of the Indian culture. Our movies not only represent our country‘s spirit, but also retell the many stories of its different and varied people,” explained Joshi.

“My aim in showing these Bollywood movies is to share my culture, my heritage and showcase the stories of my people to the world. Indian movies are known for their dramatic representation of dances and music. Through Bollywood movie nights, I wish to share a part of my upbringing and my identity with my new home and community in Canada.”

Tickets to the West End Bollywood Movie Night are free, however there is a $2 charge + fees for one bag of fresh popcorn and a cold drink. Some events have sold out, so please reserve your spot on Eventbrite.

For more information please email welcome@gordonhouse.org or call (604) 683-2554.

Upcoming West End Bollywood Movie Night Dates
April 22^nd at 7:00pm
May 20^th at 7:00pm
June 17^th at 7:00pm

Gordon Neighbourhood House acknowledges that our community is located on the unceded, occupied, and ancestral homelands of the xʷməθkwəy̓əm (Musqueam), Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish) and Səl̓ílwətaʔ/Selilwitulh (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations.