British Hindus have expressed disapproval following reports that meat and alcohol were served at Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s Diwali celebration at 10 Downing Street. The event, attended by community leaders and prominent politicians, included traditional Diwali activities like lighting diyas, a Kuchipudi dance performance, and a speech by Starmer. However, some attendees were taken aback to find lamb kebabs, beer, and wine on the menu.
This year’s menu marked a break from previous Diwali celebrations at Downing Street. In 2022, then-Prime Minister Rishi Sunak hosted a Diwali event free of meat and alcohol, aligning with Hindu dietary customs.
Satish K Sharma, a prominent Hindu pandit in Britain, publicly criticized the decision, describing it as a “complete lack of sensitivity” by Starmer’s team. “For the last 14 years or so, Diwali celebrations at 10 Downing Street have respected Hindu traditions by avoiding meat and alcohol. This year’s event was disappointing and insensitive,” Sharma stated in a video posted on X, calling for Starmer to address the situation.
Insight UK, a social advocacy group for British Hindus and Indians, echoed Sharma’s concerns. The group labeled the choice of menu as an “appalling lack of understanding or respect” for the religious traditions associated with Diwali and offered to advise Downing Street on cultural sensitivities for future events.
Downing Street has not yet issued a response to the criticisms.