05 November, 2013

British PM and Wife Celebrate Diwali at Hindu Temple


Stylish Samantha Cameron is known for her knack of dressing impeccably, whatever the occasion, and today the Prime Minister’s wife chose a dramatic autumnal sari to take in London’s colourful Diwali celebrations.

Samantha, 42, chose a russet-coloured sari edged in gold for a visit to the Swaminarayan Mandir, the largest traditional Hindu temple outside India, at Neasden in north-west London. Diwali, known as the festival of lights, is a five day celebration undertaken by millions of Hindus, Jains and Sikhs around the world.

Fireworks and lamps are used to create a riot of colour to celebrate the victory of good over evil, sweets are traded and new clothes bought. David Cameron chose not to dress quite so spectacularly as his wife though, wearing his trusty navy suit.The Neasden temple which opened in 1995, is the largest of its kind outside of India.

Made of almost 2,820 tons of Bulgarian limestone and 2,000 tons of Italian carrara marble the temple was carved in India and then shipped to London for building. Since opening the temple has attracted almost three million visitors.