With more colour than a kaleidoscope, and livelier than an
overloaded coach of hyped up schoolchildren (and that's pretty darn lively), the
Baishakhi Mela in Banglatown (aka Brick Lane) is one gargantuan event.
In fact, it's so big that it's widely regarded as the largest festival outside Bangladesh, attracting more than 100,000 people in the space of one day.
Celebrating the Bengali New Year, the mela (meaning 'gathering' or 'meeting') will be taking place along Brick Lane, as well as in Weavers Fields and Allen Gardens.
A procession will make its way through the streets of Banglatown just prior to midday, so be sure to arrive early to see the best of the day's happenings.
If last year's festivities are anything to go by, this year'll be an absolute cracker. Last year's main stage in Allen Gardens was headlined by
Lokkhi Terra, a music project created by British/Bangladeshi pianist and composer Kishon Khan.
Deshi Movement,
Suzana Ansar, and
Ershad Alamgir also performed.
The Mela stage in Weavers Fields included singer
Kumar Bishwajit, and
Band Lalon, among others. Weavers Fields also hosted the Baul & Folk Stage and included sets by the likes of
Akkas Miah and
Hashi Rani.
This year's line-up is in the process of being finalised, so for the most up-to-date information take a look at the event's
official website.
Baishakhi Mela promises to be a unique celebration of the very best in Bangladeshi arts, music, and culture, perfect for the entire family to enjoy. And think of all that lovely food you'll be able to feast upon!
The action starts at midday and wraps up at 7pm, though no doubt the streets and restaurants in the area will be at bursting point for much of the remainder of the evening.
