British PM Keir Starmer's Diwali party served non-vegetarian dishes and alcohol, Hindus protest

London: There have been allegations of meat and alcohol being served at Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s Diwali party in Britain. Due to which the Hindu community has expressed strong objection. It is being said that Hindus allegedly objected to non-vegetarian dishes and alcohol being served to guests at a Diwali banquet hosted by Prime Minister Stormer at 10 Downing Street (the British Prime Minister’s office and official residence) in London.

Community organization Insight UK questioned the “appalling lack of understanding” of the spiritual aspect of the Hindu festival, while others said wider dialogue was needed before such religious events. In a post on Insight UK, X said, “Diwali is not just a festival, but also has a deep religious meaning. The holy festival of Diwali emphasizes on purity and devotion. Therefore, vegetarian food is traditionally served on Diwali and consumption of alcohol is strictly avoided.” The organization wrote, “The dishes chosen for the Diwali banquet hosted by the Prime Minister are symbolic of Diwali itself, an understanding of the religious traditions associated with the festival or respect

Hindus questioned the serving of non-vegetarian food

While Hindu organizations said it also raises questions regarding whether Hindu community organizations and religious leaders were consulted for greater cultural sensitivity and inclusion, author and religious speaker Pandit Satish K Sharma said, “There is a complete lack of sensitivity and simple consultation at this level. .a matter of great concern. It’s disappointing, even if it’s unintentional.” is

It was finally organized by Rishi Sunak, the first British-Hindu Prime Minister of Britain. However, 10 Downing Street has not commented on the controversy surrounding the dinner held on 29 October. Government sources indicated that multiple communities were invited to the banquet and it also celebrated the Sikh festival of Bandi Chor Diwas. (language)