London Mela 2016 showcases Asian Arts and Culture

The ZEE London Mela, an enormous and fun-filled family festival, will return for a 14th year.

The free cultural and festive event is traditionally held in Gunnersbury Park.

But in 2016, the organisers have decided to move the venue to Wembley Park.

This will be the first time Wembley Park plays host to the London Mela. The lively venue will sure bring a new level of buzz to the event.

The London Mela will present the best of classical music along with British urban artists like Panjabi Hit Squad, comedy, street theatre and many exhibitions.

The Taste of Asia Food Market will be delivering some of the most mouth-watering and authentic Desi cuisine.

British Asian food writer, the Urban Rajah, is among a handful of presenters, entertaining the crowd with his cooking experience.

The 2016 London Mela is supported by the Mayor of London,­ Sadiq Khan, who says:

“This wonderful family event showcases the fantastic diversity of Asian arts and cultures in the capital, and invites Londoners from all backgrounds to come together and get involved.

“Over the last 14 years, the Mela really has gone from strength to strength, with fantastic street theatre, dancing and delicious Asian cuisine.”

Wembley Park’s COO­ James Saunders adds: “We are delighted to be hosting London ZEE Mela this year.

“Celebrating Wembley Park’s vibrant and diverse cultural heritage is an important part of our ethos.”

Earlier in March 2016, the Mela was cancelled by the organisers who wanted to focus on setting up a new independent trust to manage the Mela.

Since the local authority funding was cut, the original plan was to make a bigger comeback in 2017.

However, the organisers have changed their mind and the much awaited festival will now take place on September 3, 2016 from midday to 7pm.

Having attracted over 15,000 visitors in the 2015 event, organisers are keen on continuing to make this unique event a huge success.