• Source:JND
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Diwali 2025 UK: The festive mood of Diwali lit up 10 Downing Street this week as people from all over the United Kingdom came together to mark the Festival of Lights. The traditional Diwali reception at the official residence of the British Prime Minister underscored the priceless contributions of the British Indian community to the country's social and cultural life.

Though Prime Minister Keir Starmer was away in Egypt at the Gaza peace summit, Communities Secretary Steve Reed opened the celebrations and ignited the ceremonial lamp that signifies the victory of light over darkness and hope over despair. The backdrop was decorated with diyas, marigold garlands, and flowers, filling the air with the warmth and festivity of the season.

Hanuman Chalisa Echoes Through Downing Street

The evening began with a soulful recitation of the Hanuman Chalisa by members of the Chinmaya Mission UK’s Swaranjali group. Prayers followed from ISKCON’s Visakha Dasi and Kirit Wadia of the BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir.

Among the distinguished guests was Hanuman Dass, founder of the humanitarian organisation Go Dharmic, whose message of “love all, feed all, and serve all” deeply resonated with the spirit of Diwali. “Reciting the Hanuman Chalisa at 10 Downing Street was a moment of profound joy,” said Dass. “The prayer reminds us of courage, devotion, and selfless service — values Diwali stands for.”

Message Of Unity And Shared Values

From Cairo, Prime Minister Keir Starmer extended his Diwali greetings, saying, “Just days ago, I lit a diya in Mumbai, and earlier this evening, a diya was lit in Downing Street — a symbol of hope, unity, and promise.” He praised the British Indian community for enriching the nation’s economy, culture, and social life, describing them as the “living bridge” between India and the UK.

Communities Secretary Reed echoed this sentiment, saying the festival carried “greater significance” this year as it coincided with a “historic moment of peace” in Gaza.

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Across Westminster, meanwhile,  Diwali festivities were jointly hosted by the High Commission of India, the India All Party Parliamentary Group, and the India Global Forum. Indian High Commissioner Vikram Doraiswami referred to the festival as a celebration of collective progress and aspiration, while Lord Karan Bilimoria and other dignitaries pointed towards bilateral ties, both solidifying and in progress, including negotiations on the India–UK Free Trade Agreement.

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While diyas burned brightly at 10 Downing Street, the message was clear that Diwali is a celebration of kindness, harmony, and light triumphing over darkness, reminding the two nations of the commonalities that still hold them together.

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