Imran, Lovely Deb and Belly Afroz to headline Mela 2019

40,000 set to see some of the greats of the Bengali music scene.

Trading opportunities to benefit local businesses.

Three of the biggest stars of Bengali music; Imran, Lovely Deb and Belly Afroz will headline the Boishakhi Mela, – the biggest Bengali festival outside South Asia on Sunday 30 June.

The Mela will be back in Weavers Fields, Bethnal Green with a main stage programme, an extensive arts and family area and the Mela market place.

The annual free festival gives residents and visitors a chance to enjoy some of the best local, national and international Bengali arts, music and culture. The event also offers opportunities for businesses to run stalls offering food and products.

International pop sensation, Imran, will make his debut UK performance at the Mela with his band. As a composer and versatile singer, Imran’s songs have featured in hit films such as Samraat, the King Is Here and Anupam.

Lovely Deb, the hugely popular folk singer from the Sylhet region of Bangladesh, will make her first UK visit since 2004 at the event, which last year attracted around 40,000 revellers. Popular folk singer and emerging star Belly Afroz will also join main stage performers.

John Biggs, Mayor of Tower Hamlets said: “The annual Boishakhi Mela is a much loved and anticipated part of London’s cultural calendar. As a council we are proud to continue to support the Mela and look forward to welcoming huge international artists to Tower Hamlets for this year’s free event.”

Councillor Amina Ali, Cabinet Member for Culture, Arts and Brexit said: “The Mela brings people of all backgrounds together to enjoy a free, day long festival with spectacular music, dance, culture and cuisine. I encourage everyone, including businesses and traders interested in selling goods, to set the date aside or get in touch to enquire about trading opportunities.”

Internationally acclaimed Naz and Bolly Flex are back to showcase their dynamic dance moves inspired by classic Bollywood styles with a contemporary twist.

Opportunities to trade are open until 31 May 2019.

To book a stall visit www.towerhamlets.gov.uk/mela, call 020 7364 7926 (10am – 1pm, Mon – Fri) or email [email protected]