The UK government apologised to British Hindus on Friday after meat and alcohol were served at its annual Diwali celebration at Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s official Downing Street residence.
Although Hinduism does not strictly prohibit the consumption of alcohol and meat, many Hindus are vegetarian and choose not to consume alcoholic drinks.
Opposition lawmaker Shivani Raja said the decision to offer both at last month’s event showed “a disappointing lack of knowledge of the customs and traditions that many British citizens hold dear”.
A spokesperson for Starmer said “a mistake was made in the organisation of the event”.
“We understand the strength of feeling on this issue and so would apologise to the community and assure them it will not happen again,” the spokesperson added.
Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights, honours the victory of good over evil and usually lasts around five days. It is also celebrated by Jains and Sikhs.
Downing Street has hosted a Diwali event since 2009 but it gained particular attention during the premiership of Starmer’s predecessor Rishi Sunak, who was Britain’s first Hindu prime minister.
He was photographed with his family outside No.10 taking part in the Diwali tradition of lighting candles.
Hinduism does not take a clear line on the eating of meat but many followers choose not to eat beef because the religion considers cows sacred. Some abstain from all meats.
Conservative MP Raja, a Hindu, said in a letter to Starmer that she had been “greatly concerned” by the serving of meat and alcohol during the event.
