Dancers at the London Mela

The Mela 2003 is being held at the Wembley Exhibition Halls, in north London, for three days.

As well as appearances by Bollywood stars such as Karishma Kapoor on the BBC Asian Network main stage there will be fashion, health, beauty and cookery demonstrations.

Organisers hope people from all walks of life will visit the show and learn more about Asian Culture.

London Mayor Ken Livingstone said he was delighted the Mela was being hosted in London. It was held in Birmingham in 2002.

The show also offers visitors from all communities a unique opportunity to share in the rich and vibrant culture name here

Mr Livingstone said: "It's important that we celebrate the rich cultures of the people of who live and work in London, which is the most vibrant, multicultural metropolis in Europe.

"The contribution made by London's Asian communities, economically as well as culturally, is vital to the future success of the capital."

As well as many big-name corporate sponsors the Army will be at the Mela, hoping to attract young recruits.

Raj Ghai, Managing Director of the organisers The Bigga Event Company, said: "The show also offers visitors from all communities a unique opportunity to share in the rich and vibrant culture that is now a central part of multi-cultural Britain.

"Our aim is to make Mela 2003 an open show, where all communities can get a true flavour of the Asian community".

In August, a new Asian festival called The London Mela was held in Ealing, west London.