An authentic array of South Asian arts and Indian cultural entertainment will take over Leicester city centre this weekend, as the annual Leicester Belgrave Mela festival returns after a tumultuous two-year break.
Thousands of people will enjoy a day of spectacular Indian inspired arts, music, culture, food, fashion and entertainment this Sunday (August 21) on the streets of Leicester.
Deputy city mayor Cllr Piara Singh Clair said: “We are delighted to see the Mela back on the streets of Leicester this year as it brings colour, excitement and life to the city. This summer marks 50 years since the expulsion of thousands of people from Uganda who went on to make Leicester their home. Joyous occasions like the Mela remind us of how Leicester’s diverse communities have enriched life in the city over the years.”
On the day, Leicester Market will play host to the very popular Indian shopping bazaar, featuring an array of stalls selling clothes, jewellery, fashion, information and much more. The Mela food court will have delicious foods from across the subcontinent including authentic Indian tea, green coconuts, kulfi ice cream and amazing fresh sugar cane juices.
The main entertainment stage on Humberstone Gate this year will provide a platform for all the festival’s talented performers. Live entertainment from established and up and coming performers will be showcasing their immense talent. Sabras roadshow will end the day with an hour long slot filled with live entertainment, competitions and hosted by their populate Radio presenters and Dj’s.
The Mela has always been a family focused event, so lots to do for the whole family including billy bates children rides, Arts and crafts by Leicester Museum’s, a Bollywood Punch & Judy shows throughout the day and a life size elephant parading the City centre.
Festival Manager, Pravin Mistry, said, “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 and after a two year break the performers are so excited about entertaining the crowds. I would like to take this opportunity to thank our wonderful volunteers who make the event what it is and a shout out to our supporters Leicester City Council, Sabra Radio, Mirch Masala and Royal Indian.”
