Rupert Matthews MEP attended the Diwali celebrations in the European Parliament at the invitation of the Hindu Forum of Europe. The event featured noted santoor maestro Pandit Satish Vyas and the Natya Dance group from London putting on a display of traditional Indian dance.
Speaking after the event, Rupert said "I was delighted to attend this event. The Festival of Lights is a wonderful time of year when Indian culture really comes to life in an outpouring of joy and goodwill. Diwali is an occasion when people of all faiths, or none, are welcome to join in the celebrations. It was a pleasure to attend and to show my support for the culture of the Hindu communities of the East Midlands and of Europe."