Swindon Mela 2004 

Asian music, dance and entertainment in Town Gardens

Blaze of colour: the Swindon Mela 2004

As temperatures soared, a blast of Asian music, dance and entertainment dazzled a fifteen thousand strong crowd in Town Gardens, Old Town, today [31 July 2004].

 
Swindon's second Mela - a celebration of Asian art and culture - featured a jam-packed programme of professional performers, activities, crafts, stalls and a series of concerts at the Old Town Bowl, in what has been described as 'Swindon's most popular community event'.

In a day truly offering something for everyone, young children had the chance to try out go-karting, funfair rides, face painting, and even golf, while everyone had the opportunity to experience alternative therapies such as Indian Head massage, Reiki, aromatherapy, Ayuverda and reflexology.

Especially popular was the mouth-watering food and drink on offer which included special Indian ice cream and sweets.

Musical entertainment was provided on both the Town Gardens bandstand and the Old Town Bowl, where the glorious weather allowed the huge crowds to lie back and enjoy acts such as Mistri and the 'King of Bhangra', Malkit Singh well into the night.

 

Organisor of the now annual event (sponsored this year by Barclays bank), Toby Rathbone, from Swindon Artscape, spoke excitedly about the growing popularity of the Swindon Mela.

 
"Our first event in 2003 was extemely well attended, but this has exceeded all expectations," he said.

"It is a brilliant event that has been made possible by the fantastic support from our sponsors and from our local Asian communities. It looks like everyone has really enjoyed celebrating Asian contemporary culture and ancient traditions."