The UK’s Labour Party seized the vibrant occasion of Holi, the festival known for its exuberant display of colors and the heralding of spring, to engage with the Indian community in Britain.
At a gathering hosted by the 1928 Institute, a British-Indian think-tank, in London, Labour Party leader Keir Starmer, alongside London Mayor Sadiq Khan and other prominent figures from the Shadow Cabinet, immersed themselves in the festivities.
Starmer leveraged this celebration to underscore the party’s vision of “national renewal,” which is particularly poignant as the nation edges closer to a general election anticipated later in the year.
Starmer highlighted Holi’s thematic resonance with the ideals of rebirth and transformation, aligning them with his party’s aspirations for the impending electoral contest.
Keir Starmer (Credits: The Quint)
“This festival, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil and light over darkness, not only brings us joy but also hope in these times of global instability,” he remarked, acknowledging the reasonable contributions of the Hindu community to the UK’s societal fabric.
The theme of renewal was further emphasized by Wes Streeting, the party’s shadow secretary of state for health and social care, who praised the pivotal role of British-Indians in the National Health Service (NHS).
Streeting pointed to the ongoing and future importance of the British-Indian community to the NHS, acknowledging their significant contributions and foreseeing their continued impact.
The celebration, which saw participation from the diaspora spanning various sectors such as healthcare, business, and the arts, also addressed critical issues. Dr. Nikita Ved, co-chair of the 1928 Institute, shed light on the healthcare disparities faced by the British-Indian community, noting exceptionally high barriers to accessing mental healthcare.
Dr. Nikita Ved (Credits: Eastern Eye)
“Many from our community, driven by a spirit of service, are dedicated to working in underserved areas to mitigate these disparities, which is commendable,” Ved said, recognizing the intertwined legacy of the Indian community with the NHS.
The event, enriched by a musical performance from London-based Indian singer and actor Raageshwari, is poised to become a staple in the annual calendar of diaspora celebrations.
Through this engagement, the Labour Party not only celebrated the cultural heritage of the British-Indian community but also articulated a commitment to inclusivity, hope, and the shared journey toward a brighter, collective future.
