BBC Asian Network partners with Middlesbrough Mela for 35th Anniversary
The BBC Asian Network has partnered with the Middlesbrough Mela as the festival prepares to celebrate its 35th anniversary this August.
Organisers say the collaboration reflects the Mela’s increasing national profile, and follows efforts over several years to engage wider audiences through media partnerships. The announcement comes shortly after Jay Sean was confirmed as the Saturday night headline performer.
With more than 50,000 visitors expected, the 2025 Mela will continue its tradition of showcasing music, food, and cultural performances, bringing together diverse communities for a weekend of entertainment and celebration.
Welcoming the new partnership, Middlesbrough Mela Director Kash Patel said: “We are absolutely delighted to have signed up the BBC Asian Network to host Middlesbrough Mela this year.
“For over a decade, we’ve worked to bring the Asian Network to Middlesbrough to experience the rich cultural diversity that thrives here. “Despite our efforts, we’ve been overlooked in favour of larger cities like London, Cardiff, Birmingham and Manchester.
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“But this year, as we proudly celebrate our 35th anniversary, we were thrilled when the Head of the Network reached out to ask if they could get involved.
“This is a clear testament to the national impact our Mela is now making.”
Ahmed Hussain, Head of the BBC Asian Network, said: “We’re proud to be partnering with Middlesbrough Mela in 2025 as they celebrate 35 years of this amazing annual event.
“As a cornerstone event in the North East, the Mela reflects everything we stand for at BBC Asian Network – celebrating shared stories, music and voices that unite us every day on air.”
