Celebration of cultural diversity draws crowds in Belfast

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By Q Radio News and Rebecca Black, PA

Thousands descended on a Belfast park for Northern Ireland's biggest annual celebration of cultural diversity.

The thirteenth Belfast Mela opened at the Botanic Gardens on Sunday with a colourful parade of dancers, music, a Chinese dragon and a giant replica elephant.

Lord Mayor John Finucane helped officially open the event, which he praised as a "fantastic celebration of our cultural and artistic diversity".

(Photo - Alan Lewis)

One of the highlights of the event, organised by ArtsEkta, was the parade led by the Rajasthan Heritage Brass Band, however the entertainment also included a programme of performances on the main stage as well as food, crafts and art.

Nisha Tandon, executive director, ArtsEkta, said the festival "continues to go from strength to strength".

 

(Photo - Alan Lewis)

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