Hindu MP in Britain’s Leicester Shivani Raja wrote a letter to British PM Keir Starmer offering her assistance and guidance for all future Hindu celebrations after British Hindus were upset that non-vegetarian snacks and alcohol was served at Diwali reception at Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s Diwali party at 10 Downing Street.
In a letter, she said, “It is with this in mind that I offer my own assistance and guidance for all future Hindu celebrations, to ensure that these festivities are celebrated in a respectful manner, and mindful of the culture from which they originate.”
concerns about the Diwali reception menu at 10 Downing Street. Raja took to social media to address the lack of consultation regarding the inclusion of non-vegetarian snacks and alcohol.
The reception, hosted by Prime Minister Keir Starmer, has drawn criticism for not being inclusive of dietary restrictions observed by some Hindus during Diwali.
Taking to X, Raja said, “The Prime Minister’s Diwali celebrations were overshadowed by a disappointing ignorance to the customs of many British Hindus, serving both meat and alcohol. That’s why I’ve offered the PM my help to make sure this never happens again.”
In a letter to the British PM, she said, “Diwali, a treasured celebration across the Hindu community, has been celebrated at Downing Street since 2009, a testament to the influence and importance of Hindus throughout our nation, and a welcome acknowledgment of the successful integration of Hindus across the UK.”
She added, “It is for this reason that I, along with a large number of my constituents, were greatly concerned to hear that during this years’ celebration at Downing Street, attendees were offered alcoholic beverages and meat, not in keeping with the customs of many Hindus.”
She stated, “I feel this speaks poorly against the organisation of this years’ event with a disappointing lack of knowledge of the customs and traditions that many British citizens hold dear. As I hope you are aware, Diwali is an incredibly auspicious time for Hindus, welcoming in new beginnings, light over dark and good over evil.”
She further wrote, “As a practicing Hindu, representing thousands of Hindus within my own constituency of Leicester East, I have been deeply saddened to hear that this years’ festivities were overshadowed in the greatest Office of State by negativity, as a result of this oversight.”
She further stated that she “strongly believed” that it is of the great importance that the customs and traditions of Hindus, who are a proud part of our great nation, are respected.
“We value and respect your heritage and traditions, and recognise the strength of our shared values and the celebration of Diwali – a time of coming together, of abundance, and welcome… it is a time to fix our eyes on the light which triumphs over the darkness,” read excerpts released from Starmer’s address at the event last week.