LONDON: An Indian cultural show, "Sakhian Ladies Night", will kick-start the Edinburgh Mela Festival in Leith Sunday.

Sakhian, which means "girls and their friends", is an evening dedicated to entertainment and food for women of all ages and cultural backgrounds - all for only five pounds ($10).

The evening's headline act will be the celebrated bhangra singer and songwriter Des-C. New to "Sakhian" this year is a musical drama, "Sapno ki Shaadi (Dream Wedding)" that depicts the saga of an Asian wedding.

Shaheen Unis of Edinburgh-based Mrs. Unis Spicy Foods, the woman behind "Sakhian Ladies Night", said: "Sakhian is a great start to the Edinburgh Mela as it lets women across the generations enjoy a night out together.

"With the addition of musical drama, performed by members of the local community, the ladies night is also a valuable opportunity to showcase home-grown talent. This year some professional performers will also be taking part in the 'Sakhian Night'."

Entrance to the Mela is free Monday to Friday. For just two pounds per day on Saturday and Sunday, visitors can enjoy non-stop performances from 12 noon till 10 p.m. This includes singer Tariq Khan, a Bollywood inspired fashion show, the Gypsy Arts Festival, the London Community Gospel choir, Indian cinema classic "Mother India" accompanied by a contemporary live soundtrack, and much more, reports The Asian News.

Liam Sinclair, director of the Edinburgh Mela Festival, said: "Extending the Mela to a full week and moving to the new Leith site has enabled us to showcase many more acts than in previous years. Whether you are looking for a lively night out with friends, family fun, or the latest up-and-coming artists from around the world, the Mela is sure to please."