A number of British Indians have raised issues in regards to the lack of cultural sensitivity relating to the menu at a Diwali reception hosted by Prime Minister Keir Starmer at 10 Downing Road on October 29.
The Diwali celebration occasion reportedly included non-vegetarian snacks and alcohol, drawing criticism from sections of the Hindu neighborhood.
Group group ‘Perception UK’ expressed their disappointment, highlighting what they described as an “appalling lack of knowledge” of the non secular significance of Diwali.
In a social media publish, the group famous that Diwali will not be solely a time of celebration but additionally a “deeply religious event” for Hindus.
“The selection of menu on the Diwali celebration organized by the Prime Minister himself reveals a horrible lack of knowledge or respect for the non secular traditions related to the Diwali competition,” Perception UK mentioned.
The group additionally questioned whether or not Hindu neighborhood organizations and spiritual leaders had been consulted earlier than the occasion to make sure larger cultural sensitivity.
“We urge larger consideration in future occasions and celebrations, which intention to advertise multiculturalism and inclusion, however which don’t bear in mind the cultural and spiritual practices of the communities they search to honor,” the group mentioned.
Pandit Satish Ok Sharma, creator and dharmic speaker, echoed comparable issues, calling the shortage of session a “main concern” and “disappointing”, even whether it is “unintentional”.
The reception, which happened following Labour’s victory within the July basic election, was attended by leaders of the British Indian neighborhood, MPs and professionals.
Through the occasion, Starmer lit candles on the door of 10 Downing Road, following a practice established by his predecessor, Rishi Sunak, Britain’s first Hindu prime minister.
Downing Road is but to touch upon the selection of menu for the occasion, which was the primary Diwali reception held because the Labor Occasion got here to energy.
