It’s hard to think of Belfast Mela as anything other than a massive, multi-day, cultural celebration of music, dance, arts and food.

But as the festival found its feet in its early years, it was much smaller. It attracted 500 people and its founder thought it would only last a short time.

Fast forward to 2026, and it is established as one of Northern Ireland’s largest arts festivals, celebrating cultural diversity.

As it marks its 20th anniversary, those who have taken part over the years and helped it grow, have been sharing their stories about why they love Mela.

Nisha Tandon, founder of ArtsEkta, brought the idea of Mela to life based on the principles of inclusivity, creativity and openness.

Mela is a Sanskrit word meaning “to meet”.

Tandon initially thought the celebration “might last two or three years at most”, but it has grown into a much-celebrated annual fixture.

“We are so proud that so many cultures have that sense of belonging here,” she told BBC News NI.

“Mela has grown and it’s grown with the diversity which is growing here. Every person brings that vibrancy to the carnival and the whole week.

“Vibrancy is no threat to anybody. No culture will be spoiling anybody’s culture.”