Hundreds gathered in Trafalgar Square on Sunday for London's Diwali festival. The celebrations, featuring performances from Hindu, Sikh, and Jain communities, were hailed by mayor Sadiq Khan as the biggest outside India. Visitors browsed market stalls and enjoyed vegan and vegetarian food. Brands like TRS, Badshah, and Remitly set up activities, with some creating experiences transporting people to India's streets. Overall, the festival of lights showcased London's diverse communities and offered a taste of Indian culture through food, performance, and activities.

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak welcomed members of the Hindu community to Downing Street on Monday ahead of Diwali. Photos shared by the PM's office showed Sunak and his wife Akshata Murty lighting diyas surrounded by guests. The event celebrated the triumph of light over darkness before Diwali on November 12. Sunak also spoke to Indian PM Narendra Modi, congratulating India's cricket performance and hoping for better luck for England in January tests. The leaders discussed progress on the UK-India free trade agreement negotiations.

The first ever Ram Leela event was held in London on October 30, 2023, marking a historic celebration of Indian culture. Organized by the community group Sutton Friends, the event at Thomas Wall Theatre attracted distinguished guests including the likes of Paul Scully, the IT Minister of the United Kingdom, and Elliot Colburn, the Member of Parliament representing Carshalton, UK. Adding to the grandeur of the occasion were notable figures such as Colin Stears, Mayor of Sutton, Sanjay Singh from the Indian High Commission, Sunil Chopra, Former Mayor of Southwark, and Ravi Sharma of RJ Lyca gold. The event was further graced by encouraging messages from Ram Vilas Sharma, the former Education Minister of Haryana.With over 35 artists, 130 volunteers and viewership across London and India, the LED-wall production was an unforgettable showcase of heritage. Although in-person attendance was limited this year, Sutton Friends have expressed plans to expand the event in 2024 with backing from officials, allowing more people to enjoy the cultural spectacle.

The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, has announced the annual Diwali on the Square celebration will take place at Trafalgar Square on October 29. The free public event from 1-7pm will feature dances, music, activities, and food that capture the festival's spirit. Attendees can enjoy performances by London's Hindu, Sikh and Jain communities, yoga workshops, puppet shows, and more. Mayor Khan hailed the event as embodying Diwali's symbolic victory of light over darkness. The family-friendly festivities aim to showcase London's diversity. Organizers anticipate the landmark Diwali celebrations will draw Londoners and visitors of all backgrounds. [Image Courtesy: Greater London Authority]

On October 28, 2023, Times Square in New York City will come alive with the annual Diwali festival, sponsored by Gopi Dairy and presented by KIA. Since 2013, this event has been a cherished tradition, showcasing the diverse elements of Indian culture. The festivities will feature performances from various communities, including South Asian, Indo-Caribbean, Dominican Folk Dance, and Afro-Latino groups, reflecting the vibrant cultural mosaic of New York City. Special dance performances by schoolchildren will emphasize the importance of cultural education, promoting peace and harmony. Gopi Dairy's CEO, Rostom Baghdassarian, expressed pride in supporting this festival of light and joy. [ Representative Image]

US Ambassador to India, Eric Garcetti, embraced the spirit of Durga Puja by pandal hopping in Delhi's Chittaranjan Park. During his visit, Garcetti participated in rituals, savored Bengali delicacies, and performed the traditional Dhunuchi Naach, a highlight of the Puja celebrations. He shared his delightful experience on social media, expressing admiration for India's cultural diversity. Garcetti's active participation in the festivities, including dancing and interacting with attendees, earned him praise and warm reception from social media users, highlighting the significance of cultural exchange and acceptance.

A historic MoU signed in London will see Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s legendary ‘Wagh Nakh’ tiger claw weapon repatriated to India from the UK for 3 years. Vrushal Khandke, President of Maharashtra Mandal, expressed elation at the legendary weapon used by the revered king to kill Afzal Khan returning to Maharashtra, calling it a "proud day for Indians." The event was celebrated with traditional cultural performances. Maharashtra Minister Mungantiwar stated the Wagh Nakh would be publicly displayed to commemorate Shivaji Maharaj’s 350th coronation anniversary, underscoring its significance as a 'symbol of faith.' The Maharashtra Mandal in London appreciated the efforts to bring back the relic to Shivaji’s homeland.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised German singer Cassandra Mae Spittmann for her heartfelt rendition of Mahatma Gandhi's favorite bhajan, 'Vaishnava Jana To,' on Gandhi Jayanti. Modi shared the video on social media, emphasizing how Gandhi's teachings resonate globally. Spittmann, a visually impaired artist from Germany, demonstrated her love for Indian music by mastering songs in various Indian languages, becoming an inspiration for music enthusiasts worldwide. Modi highlighted her passion and dedication during his Mann ki Baat radio show, celebrating her talent and connection to Indian culture.

The 'Hindi Yuva Sangam' event was organized by Sangam in London on September 15 to celebrate Hindi Diwas. Indian and British dignitaries including Coordination Minister Mr. Deepak Chaudhary, Honourable British MP Mr. Virendra Sharma, and the Indian High Commission participated as youths aged 16-22 showcased their Hindi skills through self-written poems and articles. The highlight was performances by 12 talented young Hindi poets divided into teams named after Indian rivers. 16-year-old Krishnam Aachari won the first prize while Sneha Chaubey and Rahul Sethiya claimed second and third prize respectively. All participants were lauded for their excellent presentations that enthralled the audience. The presence of famous Ram Katha reciter Shri Rajan Ji Maharaj added gravitas. The successful event, supported by various UK organizations, aimed to promote Hindi among the youth and received praise for highlighting their proficiency in the language.

A gala fashion show staged Indian designer Abhishek Roy's ethnic collection on day one of the UKBC 2023 event celebrating Bengali culture. Members of the community and models took to the runway in Roy's trademark fusion of traditional and western wear. Organized by the non-profit UKBC uniting over 60 communities, the 2-day event features music, drama, food and more. Now in its 15th edition, the UKBC aims to foster Bengal's arts, bring together the diaspora and emerge as the biggest annual British Bengali gathering. Roy's fashion showcase marked a vibrant start highlighting local talent and traditional weaves.