Local residents from the Hindu community were recently able to celebrate Diwali in the magnificent setting of the Speaker’s State Rooms in Parliament.

In a cross-party reception co-hosted by Shailesh Vara MP, the residents from Peterborough were able to celebrate one of the Hindu community’s most important occasions.

Diwali, celebrated across the world and also known as the ‘Festival of Lights’, marks the triumph of good over evil, knowledge over ignorance, and light over darkness.

The event was attended by the President of the Peterborough Bharat Hindu Samaj, Mr Kishor Ladwa, along with fellow committee members, Dr Subhash Kandikatt, Mrs Rajni Reddy and Mr Vishal Vichare.

Following the event, Mr Vara said:

“I was very pleased that some of my constituents were able to come to Parliament to celebrate this very important occasion.

“Diwali is celebrated across the globe and its message of peace and understanding is one that we can all appreciate.

“To all who are celebrating, I wish them a very happy Diwali.”

Mr Ladwa commented:

“Diwali is a very special occasion for all Hindus. We celebrate it with family and friends, and in Peterborough on a special Saturday in Cathedral Square. This year it was especially good to also celebrate it in Parliament.

“Thank you to Mr Vara for inviting us.”

Photo: Kishor Ladwa, Vishal Vichare, Shailesh Vara MP, Rajni Reddy, and Dr Subhash Kandikatt.