A major mix-up at this years Downing Street Diwali celebration (which happened last month) caused quite a stir when organizers served non-vegetarian dishes and alcoholic drinks at the event
Shivani Raja the Conservative MP from Leicester East sent a strongly-worded message to the prime minister pointing out how this decision wasnt aligned with Hindu values. The incident made many guests uncomfortable – including british-indian community leaders MPs and military personnel who found lamb-kebabs fish and various alcoholic beverages at the gathering
The governments quick response included an official statement: “We understand the strength of feeling on this issue; a mistake was made in the organization“ No 10 promised this wont happen again
Shadow Foreign Secretary Priti Patel expressed her thoughts: its clear that Labour doesnt understand our cultural values. The celebration (which started back in 09 under Gordon Browns leadership) became extra-special during Rishi Sunaks time as the first Hindu PM
Some key facts about Hindu customs and Diwali:
- Many followers choose a meat-free lifestyle
- Cows are considered sacred in the religion
- The five-day festival marks good winning over evil
- Both Sikhs and Jains celebrate this occasion too
- Most practitioners avoid alcohol during religious events
The celebration which usually brings together different communities turned into an awkward situation this time – showing how small details can make a big difference in cultural events
As a practising 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