On 15 October 2017, for the first time ever, the Diwali Lights were switched on at the Coca Cola London Eye to mark the Festival of Lights celebrated by Hindus, Sikhs, Jains and Buddhists. The colour scheme of the London Eye resembled that of traditional Rangoli patterns.
It was dedicated to the victims of the recent terror attacks in the UK as well as the Grenfell Tower Fire. The switch on paid tribute to the selfless work of the emergency services and volunteers who worked hard to assist victims during the recent events.
His Excellency Y.K Sinha, The Indian High Commissioner to UK, Ambassador Dinesh Patnaik, The Deputy High Commissioner of India, Meera Syal, Gurinder Chadha, Nitin Ganatra, Juggy D, Lord Popat, Lord Desai, Lord Gadhia, Shailesh Vara MP, Tan Dhesi MP and Lopa Patel MBE were among the Chief Guests who switched on the lights at the “Light Up London reception” held at the Tattershall Castle Ship.
HE Y K Sinha said, "Diwali has become such a part of life in Britain. It is no more just a Hindu festival, or even an Indian festival, it is a very global celebration. And, what better place to celebrate Diwali than in the UK with one of the largest diaspora populations in the world.” With Andy Street, the Mayor of Birmingham, he also lit the first ever Diwali lights in Victoria Square, Birmingham.
Ravi Bhanot and Vijay Davda, co-chairmen of the Light Up London committee, the organisation behind this event said "We are delighted to work with the London Eye, the Indian High Commission and the various community groups to have the Diwali lights switched on at the London Eye for the first time. Diwali is the Festival of Light and this event symbolizes this perfectly.”
Sunny Jouhal, General Manager of the Coca-Cola London Eye said “We are delighted to have been a central part of this year’s celebrations of Diwali in London. As an iconic landmark of this diverse, multicultural city we are proud to add our own lights to this special event.”
Pranav Bhanot, event coordinator said “we believe it is important to dedicate the festival which marks the victory of good over evil to the victims of recent challenging events. Nevertheless, the festival should also celebrate the strength, resilience and bravery of the British public. We thank the Coca Cola London Eye and all of our sponsors for their support.”
Guests were treated to key note speeches, live entertainment and refreshing drinks. Funds were raised for the Grenfell Tower Appeal.
