Renowned author and Rajya Sabha MP Sudha Murty praised for her son-in-law, Rishi Sunak, emphasizing his ability to maintain “good Indian cultural values” despite being a British citizen. She attributed these values to the upbringing Sunak received from his parents, Usha and Yashvir Sunak, in the UK.
Sudha Murty, accompanied by her daughter Akshata Murty and Rishi Sunak, was a guest of honour at the Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan’s annual Diwali gala held in London. The event also saw the presence of Sunak’s parents, Usha and Yashvir Sunak, as students of Bhavan UK showcased traditional Indian classical music and dance performances.
The Importance of Education and Culture
Delivering the keynote address, Sudha Murty emphasized the dual importance of education and cultural roots for children growing up abroad. “I always believe when you are abroad, your parents must do two things: one is good education, which gives you wings in return and you can fly anywhere and settle; the second is great culture, your origin which is Indian origin or roots which you can get at Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan along with your parents,” she said.
She also extended her appreciation to Usha Sunak, calling her a “sambandhi and a good friend,” for instilling cultural pride in Rishi Sunak.
Appeal for Supporting Indian Culture
Sudha Murty urged the British Indian community to support Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan’s cultural initiatives, emphasizing their role in preserving Indian traditions. “You must send your children here to understand Indian culture because when you grow old, you go towards your roots… that gap is addressed by Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, so you have to help them in every way to survive,” she said.
Reflections on Diwali’s Universal Message
Indian High Commissioner to the UK, Vikram Doraiswami, highlighted the significance of Diwali in connecting diverse Indian traditions. Drawing upon Sudha Murty’s writings, he said, “Our origin story matters,” and explained how Diwali resonates across different regions and religions, including Hinduism, Sikhism, Jainism, and Buddhism. He added, “In a world where we fight about certainties, it is a good idea to look at Diwali as an opportunity to consider how so many things look differently in the light.”
Showcasing Indian Arts and Culture
The Bhavan UK, under the leadership of Subhanu Saxena and Dr. M.N. Nandakumara, showcased its achievements as a cultural hub for Indian arts, offering over 120 classes in 23 subjects, including music, dance, yoga, and languages. During the event, Rishi Sunak and Akshata Murty presented mementoes to the team behind the centre’s activities since the 1970s.
Students and teachers performed Kuchipudi, Kathak, and Bharatanatyam, appealing for donations to enhance the centre’s summer school and scholarship programs. NRI industrialist Lord Swraj Paul lauded the Bhavan UK’s efforts, stating, “The Bhavan UK is a great organisation promoting Indian culture and deserves our full support.”
The gala underscored the enduring relevance of cultural preservation and community involvement in bridging the gap between Indian traditions and global living.