UK Diwali Celebration: Meat and liquor were reportedly served at a Diwali party hosted by British Prime Minister Keir Starmer at 10, Downing Street. Because of this British Hindus became angry. The Diwali festivities celebrated at the Prime Minister’s official residence were attended by community leaders and top politicians. Diyas were lit in the programme, Kuchipudi dance was organized and PM Starmer also gave a speech.
However, some British Hindus expressed surprise during the Diwali event when they learned that the dinner menu included alcohol and non-vegetarian dishes. According to reports, guests were served lamb kebabs, beer and wine. On this, British Hindu Pandit Satish K Sharma accused the Prime Minister’s Office of lack of sensitivity. They said that
Video post expressed displeasure
Satish K Sharma posted a video on X and said that for the last 14 years, Diwali celebration has been celebrated without meat and alcohol at 10 Downing Street. I am disappointed and quite surprised that meat was included in this year’s festival. It is a tragedy how the Prime Minister’s advisors can be so careless.
‘The complete lack of sensitivity and simple consultation, at any level, is of great concern. If accidental, it’s still disappointing. @SeemaMalhotra1 ,
If deliberate @UKLabour and @10DowningStreet The team has again sent a message to the British Hindu community. @Keir_Starmer may… https://t.co/GxCcXrfYr7 pic.twitter.com/czzDQfv5jq— Pt Satish K Sharma MBCS FRSA FRAS (@thebritishhindu) November 10, 2024
Rishi Sunak’s Diwali party
An online post said the menu selection shows an appalling lack of understanding or respect for the religious traditions associated with Diwali, urging greater consideration at future events. However, till now there has been no response from 10 Downing Street Prime Minister’s Office on the matter. Last year, when Rishi Sunak hosted the Diwali celebration, meat and alcohol were not on the menu.