British Parliament to celebrate Diwali


Sunday, 23 October , 2005, 10:57

London: Over 100 British lawmakers, senior ministers and diplomats are expected to attend the Diwali celebrations at the House of Commons, Britain’s Lower House of Parliament, here on Thursday.

Colourful Indian dances, melodious music, traditional food, rangoli, Sanskrit hymns and idols of Hindu deities will transform the normally sober Members Dining Room at the Commons into a riot of colour at the celebrations to be hosted by Hindu Forum of Britain and eleven British Parliamentarians.

Guests at the reception will include over 100 Parliamentarians, ministers and cabinet secretaries, diplomats, business and community leaders and civil servants, the organisers said last night.



In a message to the Forum, British Prime Minister Tony Blair said, "This festival has an important role. It gives every one of us a chance to reflect on the important contribution that your communities are making to Britain/s success. This is something for us all to celebrate."

Diwali, the festival of lights, is a very important festival for one billion Hindus in the world and is celebrated with great pomp and fervour by 700,000 Hindus in Britain.

Ramesh Kallidai, Secretary General of the Hindu Forum of Britain said, "Diwali celebrates the victory of Lord Rama, who is an epitome of good governance, justice, compassion and righteous duty. It is only befitting that this festival is celebrated in the seat of British democracy - the House of Commons."
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