City reporter
LONDON: The Labour Asian Society brought together parliamentarians, business leaders and community representatives from diverse backgrounds for a prestigious Diwali reception hosted by Lord Uday Nagaraju of Bloomsbury at the House of Lords.
The gathering celebrated the festival of lights and its enduring message of hope, positivity and the triumph of light over darkness. Guests joined in highlighting the importance of mutual respect, cultural understanding and working together to build a stronger, more united Britain.
A special highlight of the reception was a message from the Prime Minister and Leader of the Labour Party, the Rt Hon Andy Burnham MP, addressed to the Labour Asian Society, its members, family and friends. The message was read to the gathering by the Labour Asians Society’s Chairman, Atta Haq.
Prime Minster message:
‘’It is my pleasure to extend my warmest wishes to all Hindus, Sikhs and Jains celebrating Diwali and taking part in the vibrant festivities.
The Festival of Lights brings with it a spirit of positivity, optimism and renewal. It signifies the victory of good over evil, light over darkness and hope over despair.
It’s a time for families and communities to embrace their values and to gather to mark traditions in their own unique ways.
The Hindu, Sikh and Jain communities are a fantastic representation of some of this country’s most important values; hard-working, welcoming and compassionate.
I am delighted to send my very best wishes to everyone joining the Labour Asians Society’s Diwali Celebration in Parliament today, bringing together people from different backgrounds to celebrate our shared values and the contribution of our diverse communities.
This festive period will allow communities of all faiths and none to celebrate moments of togetherness and remind us all that we have far more in common than that which divides us.
I hope Diwali brings peace, prosperity and happiness to you, your friends and your families in the year ahead.
Wishing you a Shubh Diwali.’’
Welcoming guests, Lord Uday Nagaraju reflected on the meaning of Diwali and the role that cultural celebrations play in bringing people together. He encouraged continued support for festivals that strengthen community relationships, promote understanding and celebrate the diversity of British society.
Gurinder Josan MP also addressed the reception, highlighting the positive contribution of British Asian communities to public life, business and community service. He expressed appreciation for the work of the Labour Government and the Prime Minister, emphasising the value of community participation in shaping the country’s future.
Virendra Sharma, Chief Patron of the Labour Asian Society and former Member of Parliament for Ealing Southall, called on communities to remain united and take an active role in building a better Britain. He encouraged guests to engage with the Society and work together in support of the Labour Government and the Prime Minister’s efforts to move the country forward.
The programme was presented by the Labour Asians Society’s Co-Chair, Manish Tiwari, who also supported the event. Introducing the celebration, he spoke about the significance of Diwali and the light, optimism and renewed purpose it brings into people’s lives. His remarks reinforced the festival’s wider message of kindness, togetherness and hope across cultures and faiths.
The reception concluded with a vote of thanks from Maria Saroya, Secretary General of the Labour Asian Society. She thanked Lord Uday Nagaraju for hosting the gathering and expressed gratitude to the speakers, supporters and guests for making the celebration possible.
The event reflected the Labour Asian Society’s continuing commitment to bringing communities together through cultural celebrations, public engagement and a shared belief in equality, opportunity and service.
