Big John's Birmingham Mela postponed over Gaza war
Entertainment
Organisers said it was not appropriate to hold the event until the war against the innocent ends
(Web Desk) - The annual Big John’s Birmingham Mela has been postponed until 2025 due to the ongoing Gaza conflict.
The “largest Asian outdoor event in the UK” celebrated its 22nd anniversary in 2023, with audiences enjoying traditional street food, shopping bazaars and musical entertainment at Cannon Hill Park.
However, organisers said it was “not appropriate” to hold a 2024 event until the “war against the innocent ends”.
Organisers have stated that the event will return in 2025.
Bob Saddiq, spokesperson and organiser of the Mela, said in a statement:
“Due to the ongoing conflict in Gaza and the heavy loss of more than 40,000 lives predominately women and children, it is not appropriate for a responsible cultural event organisation to put on a large community event celebrating.
“We stand in solidarity with humanity and Palestine and pray that this war against the innocent ends now.”
Ambreen Khan, Director of Events, added: “As much as our Mela is very popular and the largest Mela in the UK, we are mindful of the sentiments and emotions of our visitors at this very point in time.
“The Mela attracts visitors from up and down the country and has been awarded for being one of the best Asian outdoor events in the UK.”
