As part of its ongoing mission to engage with British Indian communities across the UK, Conservative Friends of India (CF India) hosted a grand Diwali celebration in Leicester, home to one of the largest Indian diasporas in the country. The event brought together over 140 prominent guests, including senior members of the Conservative Party, community leaders, and business leaders, to celebrate the Festival of Lights and strengthen the enduring friendship between Britain and India.
Attendees included Shadow Health Secretary Stuart Andrew MP, Shadow Minister Neil O’Brien MP, Leicester East MP Shivani Raja, Baroness Sandip Verma, and CF India Co-Chairs Rt Hon Sir Oliver Dowden MP and Dr Koolesh Shah.
The Indian High Commission was represented by Mohd Shahid Alam, attending on behalf of the Indian High Commissioner.
Guests enjoyed an evening of inspiring speeches and warm hospitality, complemented by authentic Indian cuisine provided by Sanjay Foods.
A key highlight of the evening was the launch of the Conservative Friends of India Ambassador Programme, a national initiative designed to engage community leaders, entrepreneurs, and professionals in shaping CF India’s work and strengthening its grassroots presence.
Rt Hon Kemi Badenoch MP, Leader of the Conservative Party and Leader of the Opposition said, “The Conservative Friends of India have made an enormous contribution to strengthening ties between our Party and India. The new Ambassador Programme is an exciting opportunity for more people to get involved and make a real difference locally and with Brits of Indian origin.”
The Ambassador Programme enables volunteers to represent CF India in their local areas, building community relationships, supporting engagement activities, and showcasing the shared values and connections between the UK and India.
Dr Koolesh Shah, Co-Chair of CF India, said: “This programme is an open invitation for anyone who shares our vision and passion. We want to empower British Indians nationwide, amplify their voices, and strengthen our national network. Leicester will always remain at the heart of our mission and ambition to make a lasting difference.”
Speakers also paid tribute to Shivani Raja MP, recognising her significant contributions in Leicester East and emphasising the importance of supporting her continued leadership and engagement within the community.
The Leicester celebration marks another milestone in Conservative Friends of India’s mission to connect, celebrate, and champion the contribution of the Indian diaspora to Britain’s social, economic, and political life.
