17th Nepali Mela concludes in UK, featuring Nepali songs, music, and cultural processions
LONDON:- The 17th ‘Nepali Mela’ (Nepali Fair) concluded at Kempton Park Racecourse in London, organized by Tamu Dhi UK in collaboration with the Embassy of Nepal.
At a time when the nation was in mourning due to devastating floods in Nepal, this year’s fair went beyond mere celebration, focusing instead on providing aid to flood victims and conveying a message of humanitarian solidarity.
More than 10,000 Nepalis from various parts of the UK participated in the fair, which was held under the slogan “Our Culture, Our Identity, Our Pride.” A total of £5,113 was raised for flood victims at the venue, and the organizers announced that all profits from the event would be dedicated to relief and rehabilitation efforts. With 42 cultural processions and 21 dance performances, Kempton Park was transformed into a “Mini Nepal.”
The event’s chief guest and Acting Ambassador, Bipin Duwadi, praised Tamu Dhi UK’s role in preserving Nepali culture and appealed for support for the motherland during times of disaster.
Special guest Indira Rana Magar, a Member of House of Representatives expressed her happiness at seeing authentic Nepali art and civilization preserved in the UK. Tamu Dhi UK President Jumkaji Gurung and Fair Coordinator Kamal Kone Gurung stated that it is the shared responsibility of the Nepali diaspora to provide solace during times of distress in the motherland.
The main attractions of the fair were the cultural procession and dance competitions. Delivering outstanding performances in both categories this year, Pasa Puchah Guthi UK won the ‘Ambassador Cup’ and ‘NRNA Cup’ titles, along with a cash prize of £1,500. Tanahun Samaj UK secured first place in the dance category, while Magar Sangh UK and Kirat Rai Yayokkha UK also achieved notable rankings in the cultural procession category.
Mountaineer Mingma David Sherpa and singers Raju Lama and Yogeshwor Amatya, among others, were present at the event. On this occasion, former Mayor Nina Gurung, journalist Bimala Sen, Dr. Dut Pun, and Grandmaster Tulsi Kumar Gurung were honored with the ‘Inspirational Person of the Year’ award. A two-minute silence was also observed to pay tribute to those who lost their lives in the floods.
This year’s fair has conveyed a meaningful message: even while living abroad, Nepalis can preserve their culture and demonstrate strong solidarity during times of crisis in their homeland. By linking a cultural festival with humanitarian service, the Nepali community in the UK has accomplished an exemplary feat.
