TOI correspondent from London: British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has offended many in the diaspora after it emerged that British Indians were served alcohol and meat in an attempt to woo British Indians by hosting a Diwali party at number 10.
The annual event was attended by community leaders, Labor MPs, Labor councilors and members of the armed forces and included prayers, lamps, speeches by the Prime Minister and traditional Indian dances.
However, some guests were surprised to see lamb kebabs, fish, beer and wine served. Some expressed their shock to catering staff but were told the items had been ordered.
Last year, when the then Prime Minister Rishi Sunak organized the event, alcohol and meat were not served.
British Indians told TOI that it was offensive, hateful and tainted the spirituality of the festival.
“The religious dimension of Diwali is that it is usually accompanied by sattvic food. These events are considered sacred. There is an element of worship involved. You cannot appeal to the gods for prosperity and wealth while being drunk at the same time. Sri Rama, also known as Maryada Purushottama, is regarded as the highest set of ideals. You cannot celebrate returning to Ayodhya by consuming slaughtered animals and alcohol,” British Hindu Pandit Satish K Sharma told TOI.
A spokesman for Insight UK, a social movement of British Hindus and Indians, said: “The religious significance of Diwali should not be undermined…”
In a statement on Instagram, Insight UK said: “Diwali is not just about celebration, but it also has a deep religious meaning. The holy festival of Diwali emphasizes purity and devotion and thus traditionally involves strict abstinence from vegetarian food and alcohol. The Diwali celebrations hosted by the Prime Minister himself The choice of menu shows an appalling lack of understanding or respect for the religious traditions associated with the festival of Diwali.It begs the question whether Hindu community organizations and religious leaders were consulted for greater cultural sensitivity and inclusiveness also raises.”
Insight UK has written to No.10 asking it to issue a statement and advise on religious sentiments going forward.
“If British Hindus are going to be insulted like this, 10 Downing Street better not host a Diwali reception,” said Sunil Poskwa, professor of international finance at Cranfield University.
No. 10. Comment denied