Virginia, August 23, 2026: Punjabi culture, traditions and heritage came alive at Mela Punjabana Da 2026, held at Magnolia Hall in Manassas, Virginia. The event brought together around 1,000 women from Virginia, Washington, D.C., Maryland and other parts of the DMV region.
The colourful event featured Giddha and Bhangra performances by girls and young women. Participants were divided into three age groups — 6–12, 12–16 and 16–21 years — giving young performers an opportunity to showcase their talent and stay connected with Punjabi culture.The mela also featured traditional and entertainment competitions, along with stalls selling Punjabi clothes, jewellery, accessories and other cultural products.
Organisers said the main aim of Mela Punjabana Da is to connect children and young people born and raised abroad with Punjab’s language, culture, traditions and heritage. The event was organised with the efforts of Dr. Jasvir Kaur, Dr. Gagandeep Kaur and Varinder Singh.The organisers also thanked Sikhs of America for its continued support and sponsorship in promoting Punjabi culture in the United States.
The successful event once again highlighted the strong connection of Punjabis living abroad with their mother tongue, cultural traditions and roots.