The streets of Southall were buzzing with people on the streets with the annual Shobha Yatra procession and the Southall Mela both taking place on the same day.

The colourful Shobha Yatra (procession) took place in Southall on Sunday to honour and commemorate Lord Krishna’s birthday. Krishna is the most highly venerated God for Hindus.

The Shobha Yatra (procession) starts around noon at the Shree Ram Mandir in King Street and proceeded along The Green towards Southall Broadway.

On the same day, the annual Southall Mela took place in Southall Park from 12noon to 8pm. It is a free public family event that was carried out in a cordoned out area of Southall Park.

People entering were searched to ensure no trouble could take place. Not only was no alcohol allowed, camcorders and cameras were not allowed into the Mela area.

Southall Mela is the brainchild of local resident and entrepreneur, Mr Shofiqul Alam. It is organised by Southall Vision, a registered charity which organises community events and supports community projects that benefit the surrounding area and people.

The Mayor of Ealing Councillor Simon Woodroofe was unable to attend. He sent Councillor Councillor Tej Bagha (Dormers Wells ward) to attend in his place.

Southall Park was full of people and stalls of all sorts. There was even a funfair in the park.

Some of the artists that appeared on stage were:

• Kamal Raja
• Sona Walia
• Shide Boss
• Adil Hashmi and SIB Rapper
• Sabrina Rahman Badhon
• Eyeden
• IBE

There was also a Sayed Hamid Fashion Show and Bollywood Dancing by JR Choreography.

Shofiqul Alam - organiser of the Southall Mela

Shide Boss at the Southall Mela 2017

Adil Hashmi and SIB Rapper at the Southall Mela 201

Kamal Raja receiving an award at the Southall Mela 2017

Sabrina Rahman Badhon receiving an award at the Southall Mela 2017

Sona Walia at the Southall Mela 2017