More than 21,000 people flock to Kelvingrove Park for Glasgow Mela

Glasgow Times

14 hours ago

This year's festival took place on Sunday, June 22.
Despite the rainy start to the day, the largest South Asian festival of its kind in Scotland treated festivalgoers to performances from acts like Gtown Desi, Saloni, and Maya Lakhani.
(Image: Kris Kesiak for Glasgow Life) The event, which is delivered by the charity Glasgow Life, is described as a "gathering" and is a South Asian celebration of Glasgow's diverse communities.
It aims to promote local artists and their cultural heritage.
Read more:
Greek's anger at Rangers' Champions League venue advantage
'We blew it' - Bernardo admits to shock Portugal Euro U21s defeat
Glasgow Jazz Festival concludes 39th edition with record-breaking performances
Attendees sampled food from around the world, joined in a variety of sports, and took part in discussions and workshops on themes including health and wellbeing through the arts, music and memory, and the role of South Asian artists in experimental practices.
There was also a collaboration with Glasgow Life Museums' Intercultural Youth Group to support the Scottish-Asian Creative Artists' Network's aim to discuss key issues within and for South Asian communities.
(Image: Kris Kesiak for Glasgow Life) Bailie Annette Christie, chair of Glasgow Life and convenor for culture, sport and international relations for Glasgow City Council, said: "Seeing thousands of people pack out Kelvingrove Park for the Glasgow Mela is always a sight to behold.
"The 2025 Mela proved why Glasgow is known the world over as a diverse, multicultural city full of artistic talent.
"The Mela is a firm favourite in Glasgow's cultural events calendar and provides fantastic free performances and a fun day out for everyone.
(Image: Kris Kesiak for Glasgow Life) "This year was particularly special as the spirit of Glasgow 850 was woven into the programme.
"Throughout the year we are seeing our established city events and festivals really embracing what this special year means to them and using the themes of the year and storytelling to excite, educate and entertain their audiences."
The festival was awarded £50,000 from Creative Scotland for 2025-26 and will benefit from £169,100 of funding over the next three years.