[ BBC ] Diwali festival cancelled due to ‘funding freeze’

The Birmingham Diwali Mela festival has been cancelled this year due to a “funding freeze” faced by the Soho Road Business Improvement District (BID). This decision follows an appeal against a successful ballot for the BID’s continuation. The cancellation affects not only the Diwali celebrations but also the iconic festive lights for other events like Bandi Chhor Divas, Eid, Christmas, and New Year. The BID has expressed deep regret and called on stakeholders to resolve the funding issue. Bob Balu, chair of the BID, mentioned that the community would be very disappointed, especially since this would have been the festival’s 10th anniversary.