Embracing the spirit of Holi, the UK's Opposition Labour Party recently engaged with the Indian diaspora, leveraging the festival's essence of rejuvenation in the backdrop of an impending election year. Led by party chief Keir Starmer, the celebration unfolded at an event orchestrated by the British-Indian think-tank 1928 Institute in London. Alongside Starmer, London Mayor Sadiq Khan and members of the Shadow Cabinet came together to revel in the vibrant hues of the festival.
Starmer emphasized the significance of this occasion, deeming it an opportune moment for the party to emphasize its message of "national renewal" in anticipation of the forthcoming general election. With Labour maintaining a lead in pre-election surveys, Starmer underscored the resonance of embracing fresh beginnings, particularly in the electoral context.
"As we welcome the incoming spring, it's a time to celebrate new beginnings; to put the old to bed and welcome in the new. And, I have to say, in election year, that message has a real particular resonance with me," said Starmer, whose Labour Party is leading in most pre-election opinion polls.
"It's a time for us to give thanks for the rich contribution of Hindus across this country, to the tapestry of our national life and recognise the strength of our shared values and our commitment to one another… the enduring themes of Holi of inclusiveness and hard work, of renewal, of reform, of celebration and compassion, are so important in a world where frankly there is such great uncertainty at the moment. It gives us not just joy together but hope for the future; hope that good prevails over evil, that light overcomes darkness," he said.
Acknowledging the invaluable contributions of the Hindu community to the fabric of British society, Starmer highlighted the enduring themes of Holi, "I'm incredibly proud of the immense contribution that people of Indian heritage have made to our National Health Service (NHS)," he said.
"As we look to the future, just as we celebrate so much of its past, we know that the contribution of our British-Indian community will be vital in the future of the NHS," he said.
The festivities attracted representatives from diverse fields, spanning medicine, business, and the arts, indicative of the diaspora's rich tapestry of talent and expertise. Dr. Nikita Ved, co-chair of the 1928 Institute, shed light on the healthcare challenges faced by British-Indians, noting their unwavering commitment to serving underserved communities, thereby addressing existing disparities in healthcare access.
Despite the hurdles encountered along the way, Dr. Ved reiterated the enduring bond between the Indian community and the UK's cherished healthcare system, underscoring the resilience and determination exhibited in overcoming obstacles. The event concluded on a jubilant note, featuring a captivating musical performance by London-based Indian artist Raageshwari, with plans underway to establish it as an annual fixture in the diaspora's festive calendar.
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