By Romail Gulzar
Oadby’s annual Vaisakhi Mela drew record crowds at the weekend as the popular cultural festival returned for its fifth year, bringing a full day of traditional entertainment, community spirit and celebration to the town.
Organised by the Oadby Punjabi Community Association of Leicestershire, the event has grown significantly since its early days. This year also featured an indoor mela which, although small in size, had a huge impact and was warmly received by visitors.
Picture credit: Pukaar News
Chairman Makhan Singh Dhadwar said the turnout reflected the Vaisakhi Mela’s increasing appeal both locally and nationally.
“This is our fifth year of the Oadby Vaisakhi Mela. We started small, but each year it grows. People travel from as far as London to enjoy a wonderful day out with traditional music, dance, art, crafts and, of course, food,” he said. “Our aim is to bring people of different cultures and backgrounds together under one roof, to celebrate one another’s traditions and to learn from each other.”
He expressed his gratitude to everyone who attended and supported the event.
Among the guests was the Mayor of Oadby and Wigston, Councillor Jasvir Kaur Chohan, who emphasised the value of cultural events for younger generations, particularly those growing up in the UK.
“It’s wonderful to come to different Vaisakhi programmes, and this is one of them,” she said.
Reflecting on her own childhood, Councillor Chohan noted that such celebrations were rare when she was growing up.
“When I was growing up in this country, we didn’t have many events like this. You tended to follow British traditions and festivals, and I learned more about those than about my own culture,” she said.
She highlighted the importance of ensuring that young people remain connected to their heritage.
“It’s vital that our youngsters, especially those born here or abroad, learn about their heritage, culture and traditions. It helps them understand where they come from and know their own history. India, and Punjab in particular, has a very rich history, and it’s important that this is passed on.”
With its strongest turnout to date, the addition of the impactful indoor mela, and widespread community backing, organisers say the Oadby Vaisakhi Mela is set to continue expanding as a vibrant celebration of culture, identity and unity.