London: UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Monday extended warm Diwali greetings to Hindus, Jains, and Sikhs across Britain, wishing them a joyful and peaceful festival while urging everyone to “build a Britain where everyone can look ahead with hope.”
In a post on X, Starmer wrote, “Wishing Hindus, Jains and Sikhs across Britain a joyful and peaceful Diwali and Bandi Chhor Divas. Earlier this month I lit a diya in Mumbai as a symbol of devotion, joy, and renewed bonds. As we celebrate this Festival of Lights, let’s keep building a Britain where everyone can look ahead with hope.”
Starmer’s office also shared snippets of Diwali celebrations, reflecting the significance of the festival in strengthening cultural ties.
The British High Commission in India celebrated Diwali with staff and families, posting on X that the festival was an occasion to mark “a fantastic year for the UK-India partnership already.” The High Commission extended greetings to everyone celebrating in India, the UK, and across the world. Similarly, the British Deputy High Commission in Kolkata shared visuals of their celebrations, expressing gratitude to the British Club for the arrangements and noting the positive momentum in UK-India relations.
British High Commissioner to India, Lindy Cameron, expressed her excitement at celebrating her second Diwali with the High Commission team. She highlighted this year’s celebrations as extra special, citing Prime Minister Modi’s visit to the UK, Starmer’s visit to India, the signing of a landmark trade deal, and the launch of Vision 2035, wishing everyone a bright and joyous year ahead.
The UK Royal Family also joined in extending Diwali greetings, wishing everyone celebrating the Festival of Lights in the UK and worldwide a very happy Diwali.
Earlier this month, on October 8, Starmer lit diyas in Mumbai, symbolizing the deep cultural and diplomatic ties between India and the United Kingdom, ahead of the festival celebrations.