Diwali At 10 Downing Street: UK PM Andy Burnham Pledges Stronger India Ties

British Prime Minister Andy Burnham celebrated his first Diwali at 10 Downing Street with members of the Indian diaspora, promising to build the “ strongest possible ” links with India and calling for greater unity and hope in British politics.

Burnham and his wife, Marie-France van Heel, hosted the reception in London on October 27, lighting traditional lamps with guests. The event came during his first 100 days as Prime Minister and ahead of Diwali, which will be celebrated on November 8 this year.

Speaking at the gathering, Burnham said he wanted his Labour government to help bring back “light”, hope, positivity and unity to British politics. He praised the contributions of Hindu, Sikh, Jain and Muslim communities to Britain and said his government would continue to support their work.

“I will do everything I can within my power to make that flame stronger and stronger,” Burnham said, referring to the festival’s symbolism of light. He thanked community members for their contributions to healthcare, public services and efforts to bring people together.

The celebrations included a rendition of the 'Hanuman Chalisa' by young devotees, with Burnham and his wife seen clapping along. The official residence was decorated with diyas and flowers, adding to the festive atmosphere.

Burnham highlighted efforts to strengthen India-UK relations, citing a recent trade delegation to India involving northern English mayors and Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds. He said the visit had helped build closer ties between the two countries.

The India-UK free trade agreement has also strengthened economic cooperation. Foreign Office minister Uma Kumaran highlighted its benefits at a separate Diwali reception hosted in London by the 1928 Institute and the India All-Party Parliamentary Group, pointing to growing links between businesses and people in both countries.

Kanishka Narayan, the UK’s Minister for Artificial Intelligence, introduced Burnham at Downing Street. The Bihar-born politician, who grew up in Wales, stressed that British Indians should be able to celebrate their heritage while feeling a strong sense of belonging in Britain. Drawing on the 'Bhagavad Gita', he said Burnham had brought greater stability and hope amid political divisions.

Visakha Dasi, president of Bhaktivedanta Manor, the Hare Krishna temple in Watford, also read from the 'Bhagavad Gita', urging people to recognise others’ happiness and suffering as their own. She called for greater compassion and empathy amid global crises and invited guests to chant the Hare Krishna Maha-Mantra. A representative of the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha recited a poem for world peace.