Asian Network to host Longest running Mela in UK

Deemed to be the first Mela in Britain, the event is estimated to attract over twenty thousand people across the day.

Since it first started 21 years ago, the Mela has brought to the stage the best in South Asian talent across the UK and this year is no exception.

BBC Asian Network presenters Adil Ray and Nikki Bedi will be introducing acts such as bhangra legend Jazzy B. He’ll be hitting the main stage at the Old Market Square with an adrenaline pumped live performance with his full band while Najma Akhtar, who performed at the first mela 21 years ago, will be delighting audiences with her unique Indo Pop Ghazal style. Popular Asian Network presenter DJ Kayper will be gracing the stage and mixing  on the turntables.

The Royal Centre in Nottingham will also be hosting further Mela celebrations to add to the jam packed schedule. Be sure to catch BBC Asian Network’s very own Sonny Ji, DJ Limelight and Kandiman who will be hosting the community stage with acts including Niraj Chag.

Asian Network’s DJ Wagon, a fixture of the Mela season will be located in Nottingham’s Old Market Square, with DJ's such as Changis Raja and Pathaan dropping the best in Asian beats.

Breakfast presenter Adil Ray, who has been spear heading the Mela Season at the BBC Asian Network, said: "It’s an honour to return to one of the longest running Melas in the country. I'm sure Nottingham will love the many acts BBC Asian Network have lined up on stage!”

Mela 21 will be taking place at The Old Market Square in Nottingham from 12 – 7pm.

Notes to editors:

• Listen to the BBC Asian Network the Sound of Asian Britain at bbc.co.uk/asiannetwork, Sky 119, freeview 709, freesat 709, Virgin 912
• Mela 21 takes place on Sunday 7^th June at Old Market Square in Nottingham from 12 – 7pm