IT IS one of the biggest days in the Indian calendar.

Now the South of England Marathi Pariwar will present their third annual Food Festival called ‘Anand Mela’ (Happy Fun Food Fair).

Passionate about encouraging others to try western Indian food and explore the culture, the Indian community group who are based in Hampshire welcome all people to the event on Sunday, January 29.

The food festival will celebrate the western Indian state of Maharashtra which has a population of 68 million people.

The event promises ‘authentic Indian Food to satisfy any plate’ and there will be games and activities to keep children and adults entertained.

Bombay street food will also be available at the event that saw more than 200 people attend last year.

Entry to the event at Chandler's Ford Methodist Church costs £1 per person. Doors open at noon.