Thousands flocked to the Birmingham National Exhibition Centre at the weekend to enjoy the best of Bollywood.

The Mela 2006 extravaganza at the NEC, during the first ever British Asian Week, was billed as Britain’s biggest ever celebration of Asian culture.

 Among the highlights was the appearance of Bollywood’s golden couple Kajol and Ajay Devgan, who have been dubbed the Posh and Becks of Bollywood.

Along with fellow actor Saif Ali Khan, they greeted fans and answered questions during interviews.

As well as film, music and fashion, the Mela also gave visitors, among other things, the opportunity to learn more about their dream career as leading members from the world of media, journalism, fashion, TV, film, publishing, business and music gathered at the Lloyds TSB/ICICI Bank Opportunities Theatre.

A Mela 2006 spokesman said: "The Mela has been staged at the NEC since 1998 and this year, the joint venture between the NEC, the largest exhibition centre in the UK, along with Clarion Events, the largest independent exhibition organiser in the country, reflects the strength and expertise behind this year’s amazing, quality driven new event, setting the standards for all other events."

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