The High Commission of India in London hosted a special Festive Season celebration at India House this week with a nod to the country’s rich arts, crafts, silks, cinema, music, food and beverage.
Chief guest Kemi Badenoch, Leader of the Opposition in the House of Commons, and former prime minister Liz Truss were among the several British parliamentarians who highlighted the strength of the UK-India partnership at the joyous gathering.
Badenoch, recently elected Conservative Party leader, said: “I want everyone to know just how important the UK-India relationship is, not just to the government but also to the Conservative Party.
“We really do value this relationship. We will continue to press for the conclusion of the India-UK FTA (Free Trade Agreement). The elections in both our countries got in the way; elections are now out of the way, it's time for us to get back to business and make sure our two governments are working towards this.”
India House was vibrantly adorned in floral decorations and lit up in the spirit of Diwali as iconic Indian brands such as Nalli Silks and Haldiram’s showcased their myriad offerings in the form of mini exhibitions. GI Heritage, a unique platform offering geographical indication (GI) certified products made by Indian artisans to celebrate the country’s rich heritage, and Indian craft gin Jaiselmer and Goan single malt brand Paul John were among some of the other highlights of the diaspora celebration.
Indian High Commissioner to the UK Vikram Doraiswami said: “The festive season for us in India began with Diwali and continues through the tail end of the year, all the way through Christmas up to the New Year.
“All religious faiths are represented in India and they are all focussed on the idea of light being representative of life, learning and truth. That commonality of festive celebration is what makes India unique.”
The event also marked the launch of a new “India-UK Stories Competition” – a campaign celebrating the Indian diaspora’s contributions to the UK in business, arts, science, culture, medicine, sports and more. The deadline for entries is set as December 13.
*Info: India-UK Stories Competition
