British Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s office apologized on Friday for the mistake in organizing the Diwali reception at 10 Downing Street. In fact, some British Hindus had criticized the inclusion of non-veg foods and alcohol in the event. Although the official statement did not specifically talk about the menu, a spokesperson for Starmer’s office acknowledged the community’s concerns and assured that the lapse would not be repeated in future celebrations, news agency PTI reported.
“We understand the strength of emotions around this issue and we assure the community that this will not happen again,” the spokesperson said.
The statement came a day after British Indian Conservative MP Shivani Raja formally expressed concerns in a letter to Starmer, saying the event was not in keeping with customs observed by many Hindus. He criticized the organization of the event alleging lack of knowledge about Hindu traditions and expressed disappointment at their ignorance.
The Conservative MP, first elected for Leicester City in July, said: “As a Hindu representing thousands of Hindus in my constituency of Leicester East, I am deeply saddened to learn that this year’s celebrations have resulted in this abandonment. The negativity affected the state’s largest office.”
He also offered to provide guidance on conducting future ceremonies in a more dignified manner.
Let us tell you that this year’s Diwali welcoming ceremony on October 29 was the first organized under the Labor government since its recent election victory. The event was intended to bring together leaders, professionals and parliamentarians from the British Indian community, but was criticized by groups such as Insight UK for showing a poor understanding of the spiritual essence of the Hindu festival. There have been calls for better consultation in the organization of religious events to avoid these cultural errors.
Despite the controversy, Starmer lit candles on the door of 10 Downing Street at the event, commemorating Rishi Sunak’s tenure as Britain’s first Hindu prime minister. During his speech at the event, Starmer emphasized shared values, respecting the contributions of the Hindu, Sikh and Jain communities, while underscoring the spirit of Diwali as a celebration of unity, abundance and welcome.
