Little India is one of Toronto's most prominent Indian and South Asian neighbourhoods. Rich in history, tradition, and authentic foods, Little India offers much to the Indian and South Asian communities. It is also a great place to visit as a local or a tourist; get a taste of Indian culture without flying half way around the world.

Toronto's Little India -- also known as the Indian Bazaar - is located along Gerrard St between Greenwood Ave and Coxwell Ave. As you step into its boundaries, the colours, smells, and sites of Little India show themselves to you. 

The course of history for Little India was set in motion by a man named Gian Naaz who opened up an Indian theatre in the late 1970's. The Theatre was called the Naaz Theatre and successfully drew other businesses and companies into the area -- many of them from a Bangladeshi , Pakistanian, and Sri Lankian backgrounds. 

By the 1980's, the Gerrard area was warmly labelled Little India. Since then a huge number of strip malls, shops, restaurants, and offices have become a vital part of this Toronto neighbourhood. 

The culture in Toronto's Little India is decidedly Indian and South Asian. But there is also a healthy jumble of culture that stems from the visitors and habitants of the area. 

With markets, shops, and religious organizations dedicated to maintaining tradition, Little India's culture can be felt very easily in its businesses and establishments.

Restaurants in Little India/Indian Bazaar offer authentic and delicious cuisine from places in the world like India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, and Pakistan. 

It is a great way to taste the food of your homeland and allows other to try new foods and spices. Butter chicken, tandoori, kebabs, and many vegetarian dishes can be found in a variety of Little India's restaurants. 

Don't feel like eating out? Come visit Little India's grocery stores or markets and get fresh ingredients, spices, and even traditional recipes. You can also find imported brands and specialty foods from India and South Asia. Some markets even allow bartering! Other items found within the Little India markets are herbal medicines and other remedies.

It only makes sense that businesses in the Indian Bazaar sell all the latest fashion, from Toronto and from India! Everything from Sarees to menswear can be found within the boundaries of Toronto's Indian Bazaar. There is also a big industry for traditional wedding attire in the area. 

Find stores that sell electronics, music, jewellery, books, and movies that are geared towards the Indian and South Asian cultures within the Indian Bazaar.  

This well-known strip is often full of visitors. it has also made a lot of progress since the Gerrard Indian Bazaar Business Improvement Area (BIA) was created. It was made by the people of Little India to strengthen their community. 

The Gerrard Indian Bazaar Business Improvement Area is also responsible for creating some of the area's best events. A popular event that is is the Diwali-Eid Festival. Learn more about this BIA at www.gerrardindiabazaar.com.

Services available to everyone in and around Little India include clinics, Animal hospitals and vets, and banks. It is also a good idea to look out for festivals such as the TD Festival of South Asia. You can find out all the news on the festival at www.festivalofsouthasia.com.

Toronto's Little India has grown so much over the years in regards to services and events -- it only enhances the areas already strong sense of community.

There is also a huge number of Toronto associations which specialize in helping and promoting the Indian and South Asian cultures. There is assistance for new immigrants as well as education and job opportunities found through some of these associations. 

There are a huge amount of Mosques, Temples, and Gurudwara all over Toronto and near by Little India. Toronto is a city of multiculturalism and respects the traditions and religions of people around the world.

There are stores, offices, and other buildings available for rent, lease or purchase! The area is still thriving and continues to grow. The businesses have all helped make better community.

Toronto's Little India is a treasured community. It is where you go for authentic food, Indian movies, and music. You can also find all the latest in traditional clothing. 

Totally Toronto can help you find out what is new in Little India.