"Bend It Like Beckham" actress Preeya Kalidas is all set to launch her pop career during an annual festival in Leicester that showcases South Asian arts, entertainment, dance and food.

Preparations are going on for the yearly Leicester Belgrave Mela, one of the biggest South Asian events in Britain, July 18.

The Leicester Belgrave Mela will be held at the city centre and arrangements were being made for the arrival of thousands from outside the town.

The focus in 2010 will be on Preeya Kalidas, who acted in two popular diaspora movies, "EastEnders" and "Bend it Like Beckham".

Preeya launches her pop career with her first live performance at the fair. She will be joined on stage by Asian singing sensations H. Dhami and Mumzy Stranger.

Other highlights comprise the Mela Bazaar in Leicester market place, with a range of stalls and exhibition stands comprising an Indian food court besides an exclusive Asian wedding exhibition.

Festival director Pravin Mistry said, "It's going to be bigger and better than ever and we want everyone to be part of the magical Leicester Mela experience." (With Inputs from Agencies)