MP for South Leicestershire, Alberto Costa, was delighted to accept an invitation to attend two Hindu Temples in Leicester, to celebrate the festival of Navratri. Meaning ‘nine nights’, Navratri symbolises the triumph of good over evil.
Visits to the Shri Ram Mandir and Shree Hindu Temple and Community Centre, were organised by the Conservative friends of India, a group created to establish and strengthen community links and engagement.
At both visits, Mr Costa was able to meet members of the community and also join in the traditional Garba dance. This was followed by Mr Costa giving a speech to congratulate the congregation on this joyous occasion.
Mr Costa said “I was delighted to visit both Temples – it was wonderful to meet so many people and learn more about the festival of Navratri. I would like to thank both committees for being so hospitable and making me feel so welcome on the day.
“The Hindu community has made a significant and very welcome contribution, not just in Leicester but across the country.
“Across a number of walks of life, from business, to public service and charitable work, they have made considerable contributions in the UK for a number of decades and it was a pleasure to be able to celebrate Navratri with them at two magnificent temples in Leicester.”