London – A Diwali celebration hosted by UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer at 10 Downing Street has sparked controversy after reports surfaced that the event included meat and alcohol on the dinner menu. The gathering, attended by community leaders and high-profile politicians, featured traditional aspects such as diya lighting and a Kuchipudi dance performance, but also included lamb kebabs, beer, and wine, drawing criticism from parts of the British Hindu community.
The event deviated from the precedent set in previous years. During the Diwali celebration hosted by former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, meat and alcohol were notably absent from the menu. This year's choices have been met with disappointment by some, who view them as a disregard for the cultural and religious sensitivities tied to Diwali.
Prominent British Hindu leader Satish K Sharma voiced his discontent, calling it a "complete lack of sensitivity and simple consultation" on the part of the Prime Minister's office. “For the last 14 years or so, the Diwali celebration at 10, Downing Street has been without meat and alcohol. I am disappointed and quite shocked that this year's celebration seemed to be an inebriated meat-induced stupor-dominated event,” Sharma said in a video posted on X (formerly Twitter), urging Prime Minister Starmer to make a statement.
Insight UK, a community movement representing British Hindus and Indians, also criticized the decision, stating that the inclusion of meat and alcohol showed an "appalling lack of understanding or respect" for the traditions associated with Diwali. The group has offered its assistance to advise Downing Street on religious customs to avoid similar issues in the future.
As the backlash continues, calls for greater cultural awareness and sensitivity in planning public celebrations have gained momentum, emphasizing the need for proper consultation with community leaders.
