Overview

• The annual, free celebration featured Indian music and dance, devotional bhajans, street food and family activities, with long queues reported across the square.
• Sadiq Khan told attendees they can be proud Londoners while proudly Hindu, Sikh or Jain, underscoring the festival’s inclusive message.
• The programme opened with about 200 dancers performing in the centre of Trafalgar Square before a series of stage shows on Diwali traditions.
• The event was organised with the volunteer-led Diwali in London committee, with Chinmaya Mission UK as this year’s chair and partners Remitly, Lidl and Daawatagencies.
• Deputy High Commissioner Kartik Pande described Diwali as a symbol of India–UK friendship, citing momentum following Starmer’s recent visit to India.