Colourful weekend set to celebrate cultures from around the world at Crawley International Mela

The festival, which takes place this weekend (July 25 and 26, noonto 6pm), celebrates cultures from around the world with free music, dance, workshops, food stalls and more.

Established 27 years ago, the Mela brings people together to enjoy the finest of each other’s cultures.

This year’s theme is ‘The World at Your Doorstep’ and activities take place in different ‘zones’.

Indian zone

Gurjar Hindu Union is celebrating its fifth anniversary since opening the Apple Tree Centre in May 2010.

A Hindu Heritage Events project has been arranged for 2015 and the union is grateful to receive support from Crawley Borough Council, West Sussex County Council and Heritage Lottery Fund.

There will be information on community, as well as dance and drama.

A Mega Fifth Anniversary Community Dance and Drama show will be held at The Hawth on November 8.

There will also be photos and recordings that document the oral history of six members of the community. This involves documenting their entire life experiences from leaving their homeland to settling in Crawley.

People can learn about the design and architectural features of the outside and inside of the Mandir (Temple), which consists of ornate and magnificent features made from marble and pink sandstone.

African and Caribbean zone

To commemorate 50 years since Martin Luther King’s Selma March for black voting rights there will be a special free screening of the Selma movie. This takes place in the Hawth’s Studio on Saturday and Sunday at 2pm. Shout choir will be singing the Oscar-winning song ‘Glory’ from the film.

There will also be free Gumboot Dance Workshops (both days, wearing wellies optional) from 1.30pm in the studio, free head tying demonstrations and African and Caribbean artefacts on display.

Health Zone

Gatwick Adventist Church’s Health Station will give people a check to see if they have a clean bill of health, or if they require a tune-up.

The free services, all carried out by healthcare professionals, include: blood sugar testing, fitness check, BMI check, peak flow testing, health age check and nutrition advice.

Brazilian zone

Rosa Nazira will perform on the main stage at 4.30pm on Sunday. Other events include: face painting (Brazil and UK flags only), self make-up tips, a business presentation by Alessandra’s Jewellery and a carnival outfits exhibition.

Eastern Stream Zone

Visit the Spotlight Room for many exciting activities by the Eastern Stream communities.

Visit www.crawleymela.org or www.hawth.co.uk to find out more.

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