Dartford Mela Showcases Local Talent

Kent Equality Cohesion Council was pleased to support this year’s Dartford Mela, which took place on Sunday 28th June at the Open-Air Theatre in Central Park.

The event celebrated the music, dance, food and traditions of the Indian Sub-Continent, while also reflecting the British Asian experience and the diversity of modern Dartford. Supported by Arts Council England, the Mela was produced by Cohesion Plus in partnership with the Mayor of Dartford, Councillor Avtar Sandhu MBE, and a team of local volunteers.

There was a strong focus on local talent throughout the day. The Four by Four Kings of Bhangra brought energy and colour to the stage with traditional Bhangra dance, while the Dartford Nepalese Community Dance Group performed choreography celebrating Nepalese culture. Soptosur Music School showcased local Bengali musical talent, singer Sadia Afrin Ripa entertained the audience with popular Bengali songs, and the Pacha Pucha Drumming Group added rhythm and atmosphere with their lively drumming.

The programme also featured Bengali pop star Nurjahan Shilpi, Bollywood vocalists Shama and Shahid, and headline performances from Bhangra stars Angrej Ali and Shin DCS, who brought the event to a lively close with popular songs that had the audience singing and dancing along.

The mix of music, dance and food helped create a warm and welcoming atmosphere, bringing people together to enjoy the different cultures that are part of Dartford’s community life.

Gurvinder Sandher MBE DL, CEO of Kent Equality Cohesion Council, said:

“Dartford Mela is a great example of how culture can bring people together. It was lovely to see local performers sharing the stage with established artists and to see the community supporting the event. These celebrations are important because they give people a chance to enjoy different cultures, support local talent and come together in a positive way. I would like to thank the Mayor of Dartford, Councillor Avtar Sandhu MBE, the volunteers, performers, partners and everyone who helped make the Mela happen.”