When it comes to Diwali celebrations in Manchester, one of the biggest and most highly anticipated events is the Manchester Dashehra Diwali Mela which takes place in the city centre, attracting thousands of diaspora members and passers-by with dazzling displays and parades.
After a four-year hiatus due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the Mela is all set to return to the city on Saturday, October 5. Organised by the Indian Association Manchester (IAM), the festival will transform Exchange Square into a vibrant celebration of light, harmony, and culture.
As well as showcasing local talent, the event will also host dance performances by Athira Manohar and the SHIAMAK Midlands Dance Team.
The event will feature a co-created performance of the Hindu epic ‘Ramayan’, engaging 250 community members alongside professional artists, which will be presented in four parts throughout the day, starting at 2:00 pm and concluding with a grand finale projected onto the Corn Exchange.
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IAM President Vijay Kumar expressed excitement for the return of the event, noting, "Our theme this year is 'Celebrating the Light of Harmony,' and we are proudly bringing together different communities of Manchester to join and work with us."
Families can also enjoy a rich array of entertainment, including a lantern-making workshop, Bollywood dance performances, and a street procession featuring illuminated puppets and live music.
As dusk falls a lantern procession will begin. Led by Global Grooves, with illuminated dhol players, dancers and animated Hindu puppets, the procession will feature over 100 participants, including community members from the lantern workshops and Greater/Manchester multi faith groups. The procession will travel from Exchange Square to St Ann's Square and back.
Namratta Bedi, General Secretary of IAM, highlighted the event’s inclusive nature: "We are proudly bringing together different communities of Manchester to join and work with IAM; giving an opportunity, visibility and platform to our local as well as international artists and businesses. There is something for everyone, no matter what age or background, and will be a day to remember "
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With support from Arts Council England and Manchester City Council, the Mela promises to attract around 8,000 attendees, offering not only a cultural spectacle but also an opportunity for local vendors to showcase traditional Indian cuisine and crafts.