A large number of British cabinet ministers, members of Parliament, and Lords and Baronesses participated in a colourful Diwali celebration in the House of Commons on Thursday.
Colourful Indian dances, melodious music and food displays were the highlight of the two-hour long programme.
The deities of Lord Rama, wife Sita and brother Lakshman took centre stage in the dining room of the magnificent Commons building.
Among those present were Lord Swraj Paul, non resident Indian industrialist and chairman of the London Olympics 2012 delivery committee, Keith Vaz, NRI leader and former minister for foreign and commonwealth office, Patricia Hewitt, health secretary, and Ranjan Mathai, Deputy High Commissioner of India to the United Kingdom.
Sending across his best wishes on the occasion, Prime Minister Tony Blair said the festival celebrates the victory of light over darkness and good over evil.
"It is a time when the family is centre stage. It's time, too, for reflection both on what has been achieved in the past and our hopes and ambitions for the future," he 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," Blair said.
Michael Howard said the fact that Diwali was celebrated across Britain showed once again that the country was immensely enriched by the diverse communities that live here.
"We are are a stronger and better country as a result," he said.
Diwali special: A pageant of light
Ramesh Kallidai, secretary general, Hindu Forum of Britain, said, "It is befitting that this festival is celebrated in the seat of British democracy - the Houses of Parliament. Britain after all, is the mother of democracy and India the largest. The countries enjoy a historical relationship built on friendship and trust."
Keith Vaz said four years ago members of Parliament together with the Hindu Forum of Britain organized the first ever Diwali celebrations at Westminster.
"This unique event brings together Parliamentarians and the communities they are elected to serve in celebrating this important festival in Parliament," he said.
Steve Pound, MP, chairman of the Labour Friends of India, said, "To celebrate this great festival of hope in the heart of the UK Parliament is not only a great achievement for the Hindu Forum of Britain but a signal to the world."
