Leicester’s Belgrave Mela is set to take place in the city centre next weekend, with a glittering programme of entertainment, food and culture in store.
The popular annual event will kick-off at 11am on Sunday, August 20, with thousands expected to turn out to enjoy the festivities.
Supported by Leicester City Council, the Mela is a celebration of South Asian and Indian culture, which began in Belgrave back in 1982.
Although It was meant to be a one-off event, it was so popular that it became an annual event, and eventually outgrew its original place – which is why it is held in the city centre today.
A wide array of events are set to take place on Humberstone Gate, Gallowtree Gate, Leicester Market and the Clock Tower, between 11 and 6pm.
Among this year’s highlights, is a performance by the Rajasthan Heritage Brass Band and a life sized elephant which will parade through the city centre.
There will be an ongoing showcase of a Bollywood version of Punch and Judy, Punjeet & Judy gee for children to enjoy as well as a climbing wall, fairground rides and arts and crafts by Leicester Museums.
This year, Leicester Market will play host to the very popular Indian shopping bazaar, and the Mela food court will have delicious foods from across the subcontinent including authentic Indian tea, fresh coconuts, kulfi ice cream and amazing fresh sugar cane juices.
The main entertainment stage on Humberstone Gate this year will provide a platform for the festival’s talented performers. Also, Sabras Radio Road Show will be celebrating 28 years of Broadcast Excellence with Sona Walia as their headline artist, supported by Daljit Mattu.
Vijay Mistry, Festival Manager 2Funky Arts said: “We’d like to say a huge thank you to Leicester City Council for their continued support in helping us make this community focused festival a truly diverse, and entertaining event. I am sure the Mela will be a huge success again.
“The fact that thousands of people come every year, from far and wide, just shows what the Mela means to people here in the city. I would like to take this opportunity to thank our wonderful volunteers who make the event what it is and a shout out to all our supporters: Leicester City Council, Sabras Radio, Tilda, Mirch Masala and Royal Indian.”
Visit: https://www.leicester-mela.co.uk/ to find out more.
