The office of Prime Minister Keir Starmer apologized on Friday over a “mistake”, at Diwali reception that was organized at 10 Downing Street this year.
A section of the British Hindu community criticised the non-vegetarian food and alcohol in Menu, that were served at the event. Many attendees felt was not appropriate for a Diwali celebration as it is closely tied to Hindu traditions.
A statement from Downing Street was released by a spokesperson: “We understand the strength of feeling on this issue and assure the community it will not happen again,” he assured, saying that while the community’s concerns were well noted, future celebrations “should be more appropriate with respect for other cultures.”
Criticism From Leaders of Community
British Indian Conservative MP Shivani Raja, representing Leicester East, expressed disappointment in a formal letter to Prime Minister Starmer. As a practising Hindu, she highlighted the event’s failure to align with traditions observed by many Hindus.
“It is a pity that an occasion that normally displays such high awareness now gives the impression of a most disappointing lack of knowledge about many British customs and traditions by which most citizens are so moved,” she said.
Critics from many community groups including INSIGHT UK attacked the Diwali reception, arguing that more consultation and fewer cultural faux pas were required.
The reception was on October 29 and marked the first Diwali celebration organized by the Labour government since their electoral victory.
The diary page also illustrates the significance of Diwali parties at Downing Street for British Hindus, as this has become a massive yearly affair after Britain had its first Hindu prime minister in the form of Rishi Sunak.
Traditionally, Diwali celebrations have always been vegetarian and alcohol-free due to the sensitivity of the Hindu community on such matters.
Prime Minister Starmer’s speech at the function promoted common values and communal practices. He has also underlined parts of Hindu, Sikh, and Jain traditions in this regard; however, it got lost in the menu for those diners.
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