UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Monday extended warm greetings to people across Britain and the world on the occasion of Diwali and Bandi Chhor Divas.
Recalling his recent visit to India, Starmer said he lit a diya in Mumbai as a symbol of devotion, joy, and renewed friendship between the two nations.
“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 posted on X.
During his joint press conference with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Mumbai on October 9, Starmer had also extended greetings in Hindi, saying, “Finally, I’d like to take this opportunity as we enter the festive period to wish the people of India joy and happiness and a very Happy Diwali. Diwali ki Shubhkamnaye.”
Meanwhile, the UK High Commission in India celebrated Diwali with traditional fervour. Embassy officials dressed in Indian attire and made rangoli at the High Commission premises.
Sharing pictures on X, UK High Commissioner to India Lindy Cameron said, “So excited to be celebrating my second #Diwali with my amazing team at the UK High Commission in India. This year’s celebration is extra special – with the visit of Prime Minister Modi to the UK and Prime Minister Keir Starmer to India, the signing of the landmark trade deal, launch of #Vision2035, and so much more! I’d like to wish everyone celebrating an extremely Happy Diwali. May the year ahead be bright and full of joy for you and yours.”
The UK High Commission also shared festive wishes on X, posting, “A very Happy Diwali to everyone celebrating in India, the UK, and around the world.”
Diwali, symbolising the spiritual victory of good over evil, light over darkness, and knowledge over ignorance, was celebrated on Monday with great enthusiasm across the world, reflecting India’s vibrant cultural heritage and spreading the universal message of unity and harmony.
–IANS