Tag: DIWALI

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Food Lite Blogs

A Symphony of Flavors to Illuminate Diwali

Renaissance Bengaluru Race Course Hotel is embracing the spirit of Diwali with a special feast that goes beyond mere dining—it’s a celebration of joy and togetherness…reports Asian Lite News

Diwali’s luminous charm isn’t limited to just diyas and fireworks; it extends to the dining table as well. When the sun is high in the sky, and the festive spirit is in the air, finding the perfect place for Diwali lunch is paramount. In this article, we’ll guide you through the most delightful spots for a memorable Diwali lunch. From traditional thalis to contemporary twists on classic dishes, you’ll discover a variety of options to satisfy your cravings while basking in the warmth of the festival.

Festive Brunch Extravaganza at KOKO!

This festive season, KOKO brings the Asian flair to you with its exclusive Festive Brunch, for an indulgent weekend. This brunch celebrates KOKO’s gourmet elegance as you raise a toast to the finest moments with your loved ones. The menu is sure to leave you mesmerized, with flavours that will awaken your taste buds. From comforting soups to refreshing salads, hand-rolled sushi, delectable dim sum, and scrumptious desserts, indulge in a complete Sunday experience. 

Price: Rs. 2400+ plus taxes, drinks a la carte

When: 12th November, 12pm onwards

Where: C Wing, Trade World, Kamala Mills Compound, Ground Floor, Lower Parel, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400013

For more information contact +91-7715963030

Sheraton Grand Bangalore Hotel at Brigade Gateway presents 6 Cities, 6 Chefs, 6 Flavours

Embark on a journey through the diverse regions of India as Sheraton Grand Bangalore Hotel at Brigade Gateway proudly presents its grand Diwali Brunch, embracing the theme of “6 Cities, 6 Chefs, 6 Flavours.” This exceptional celebration of cuisines promises to be a gastronomic delight, curated by top class chefs who have mastered the art of regional cuisine.

Chef Muni will transport your taste buds to Telangana with the iconic Charminar Gali ki Haleem, a signature dish that showcases the rich flavors of the region, alongside the delightful Telangana Pachi-Mirchi mirapakaya kodi and Chinta chiguru Royyala curry. From Punjab, we have Chef Gaurav Bansal presenting the classic combination of Sarson da Saag and Makki di Roti, an indulgence that captures the essence of the land of five rivers.

Experience the vibrant dishes of Gujarat, artfully prepared by Chef Prasenjit, featuring the Gujarati Kadhi, Handovo, and Undhiyu. Odisha’s culinary treasures come to life under the guidance of Chef Prabhat, with dishes like Kataki Ghanta, Dahi Baigan, Besara Macha, and Chingudi Jholo.

Venture into the wilderness of India with Chef Tajveer’s creations, including Jangali Sikar and Gahat (Kulath) Soup, offering a unique and adventurous dining experience. Lastly, Chef Pankaj invites you to explore the diverse culinary landscape of Bengal with dishes like Tangra Chilli Chicken, Macher Chop, and Kolkata Kathi Roll. So, make this Diwali unique and unforgettable with tastes from across the country at the Sheraton Grand Bangalore Hotel at Brigade Gateway for a brunch!

Where: Feast, Sheraton Grand Bangalore Hotel at Brigade Gateway

When: November 12, 12.30 PM – 4.00 PM

Price: INR 2600 (Brunch) | INR 3600 (Brunch with beverages)

For more details, please contact: 9632081279 | 9591996959

Coriander Kitchen invites you to celebrate Diwali bliss at Conrad Pune

An Extravagant Vegetarian Spread Inspired by the Rich Culinary Traditions of India. Dive into a burst of flavours as you enjoy the vibrant and delicious tastes of Gujarat. Every bite is like a tale of tradition and celebration, bringing the festive spirit of this region straight to your plate. Feel like royalty as you savour the authentic dishes from the heart of Rajasthan. Each dish is a journey to the majestic palaces of the desert state, promising a regal and flavorful experience.

Experience the heartwarming and robust flavors of Punjab, where every dish carries the lively desi punjabi spirit. Let the joy of Punjab’s rich culinary traditions dance on your taste buds with every delightful bite. But the festivities don’t stop there! Join us for a live Indian barbecue experience featuring exotic vegetable grills, a live station inspired by the bustling streets of Mohhamed Ali Road, and tempting live stations offering Amritsari kulchas, hot dogs, and more.

What: Diwali Weekend Buffet

Where: Coriander Kitchen, Conrad Pune

When: 11th – 12th November 2023

For reservations call: 02067456745 or +91 9168603850

For more information visit conradpune.com

Renaissance Bengaluru Race Course Hotel presents Diwali festive brunch and dinner to celebrate togetherness

Renaissance Bengaluru Race Course Hotel is embracing the spirit of Diwali with a special feast that goes beyond mere dining—it’s a celebration of joy and togetherness. The Diwali Festive Brunch and Dinner showcases a diverse menu, blending tradition with a modern twist to offer guests a culinary journey filled with delightful flavors.

The atmosphere is charged with festive vibes, enhanced by live band music, creating a warm ambiance that reflects the essence of Diwali. This celebration invites everyone to come together and share in the happiness sparked by delicious food and good company.

What: Diwali Festive Brunch and Dinner 

Venue: Lush, Renaissance Bengaluru Race Course Hotel

Date: Sunday, 12th November, 2023

Time: Brunch: 1:00 pm to 4: 30 pm

          Dinner: 7:00 pm to 10:30 pm

Price: Rs. 2500++ (Without Alcohol) Add Rs. 1000/- for Beer/Wine package or add Rs. 1500/- for IMFL package 

For further queries, please reach out to +91 9513944520

Indulge in Culinary Delights with Festive Brunch at Foo

Celebrate this festive season by uniting with your loved ones for an opulent brunch at Foo, where you can immerse yourself in a gastronomic voyage that will awaken your taste buds. Your culinary adventure at Foo promises to be an unforgettable experience with your family and friends, filled with a symphony of flavours and delectable Asian delights.

When: 12th November

Where: Foo Outlets – Town, Bandra, Andheri & NESCO

Time: 12 pm onwards

Price : Rs. 1650/- + taxes for food and Rs. 1550/- plus taxes for drinks

For more information visit instagram.com

Justbe by Nidhi Nahata has you covered!

Join this weekend for an enriching experience at Justbe by Nidhi Nahata to honor the craft of flavors and creativity through exclusive “Vegan Vegetable Crepe Rolls” that can be paired with range of beverages and wines. This weekend special is a testament to our unwavering commitment to creating an exceptional and elevated plant-based dining experience.

Delight in the delectable symphony of flavors within Vegan Vegetable Crepe Rolls. These handcrafted delights features signature in-house crepes, generously filled with tofu, an array of crisp vegetables, and delicate microgreens. Enhancing the experience is a side of sweet chili sauce for a touch of sweetness and avocado dressing that elevates the dish to culinary perfection.

Where: Justbe by Nidhi Nahata

When: Saturday and Sunday

Price: Rs. 280+ taxes

For reservations contact: +91 95138 04561

ALSO READ-Wales Celebrates Diwali

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Hoyle welcomes Doraiswami in Parliament for Diwali celebrations

Earlier, UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak also welcomed guests from the Hindu community at 10 Downing Street for Diwali celebrations…reports Asian Lite News

As several United Kingdom politicians have opened their doors to the Indian population ahead of the Diwali celebrations, Speaker of the UK House of Commons, Lindsay Hoyle, hosted the Indian High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Vikram Doraiswami.

“Following his recent visit to #India for the #P20,@CommonsSpeaker@LindsayHoyle_MPhosted a Diwali reception @UKParliamenttoday. HC @VDoraiswamiwas among the guests,” the Indian High Commission posted on X (formerly Twitter).

With Diwali, also known as Deepwali, commencing on November 12, Hindus and festival lovers across the world prepare to embrace the festival. The five-day-long festival is the festival of lights for Hindus, Buddhists, Jains and Sikhs, which symbolises the spiritual victory of light over darkness, good over evil.

Earlier, UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak also welcomed guests from the Hindu community at 10 Downing Street for Diwali celebrations.

“Tonight Prime Minister @RishiSunak welcomed guests from the Hindu community to Downing Street ahead of #Diwali – a celebration of the triumph of light over darkness,” as per the UK Prime Minister’s office’s official handle on ‘X’.

Doraiswami had recently visited India for the P20 summit.

“The first-ever G20 Parliamentary Speakers’ Summit (P20 Summit) hosted by the world’s largest democracy concluded at India International Convention Centre, Yashobhoomi, Dwarka, Delhi today, October 14, 2023, with parliamentarians from across the world coming together and reaffirming their commitment to continue their joint work to make an effective and meaningful parliamentary contribution to the G20 process,” the G20 press release stated.

Meanwhile, PM Modi and PM Sunak also held a telephone conversation last week.

The two leaders agreed on the importance of securing an ambitious deal that benefitted both sides.

Sunak also congratulated PM Modi on Team India’s strong performance in the ongoing Cricket World Cup.

Meanwhile, talks for a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between Sunak and Modi began in 2022, with the 12th round of negotiations, taking place from August 8-31 this year.

On the other hand, India is having a strong run in the ongoing Cricket World Cup and is sitting at the top of the table after winning all eight matches it has played so far. (ANI)

ALSO READ-Sunak Celebrates Diwali at 10 Downing Street

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UK House Speaker Hosts Indian Envoy For Diwali Celebrations

Earlier, UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak also welcomed guests from the Hindu community at 10 Downing Street for Diwali celebrations.

As several United Kingdom politicians have opened their doors to the Indian population ahead of the Diwali celebrations, Speaker of the UK House of Commons, Lindsay Hoyle, hosted the Indian High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Vikram Doraiswami.

“Following his recent visit to #India for the #P20,@CommonsSpeaker@LindsayHoyle_MPhosted a Diwali reception @UKParliamenttoday. HC @VDoraiswamiwas among the guests,” the Indian High Commission posted on X (formerly Twitter).

With Diwali, also known as Deepwali, commencing on November 12, Hindus and festival lovers across the world prepare to embrace the festival. The five-day-long festival is the festival of lights for Hindus, Buddhists, Jains and Sikhs, which symbolises the spiritual victory of light over darkness, good over evil.

Earlier, UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak also welcomed guests from the Hindu community at 10 Downing Street for Diwali celebrations.

“Tonight Prime Minister @RishiSunak welcomed guests from the Hindu community to Downing Street ahead of #Diwali – a celebration of the triumph of light over darkness,” as per the UK Prime Minister’s office’s official handle on ‘X’.

Doraiswami had recently visited India for the P20 summit.

“The first-ever G20 Parliamentary Speakers’ Summit (P20 Summit) hosted by the world’s largest democracy concluded at India International Convention Centre, Yashobhoomi, Dwarka, Delhi today, October 14, 2023, with parliamentarians from across the world coming together and reaffirming their commitment to continue their joint work to make an effective and meaningful parliamentary contribution to the G20 process,” the G20 press release stated.

Meanwhile, PM Modi and PM Sunak also held a telephone conversation last week.

The two leaders agreed on the importance of securing an ambitious deal that benefitted both sides.

Sunak also congratulated PM Modi on Team India’s strong performance in the ongoing Cricket World Cup.

Meanwhile, talks for a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between Sunak and Modi began in 2022, with the 12th round of negotiations, taking place from August 8-31 this year.

On the other hand, India is having a strong run in the ongoing Cricket World Cup and is sitting at the top of the table after winning all eight matches it has played so far. (ANI)

ALSO READ: Wales Celebrates Diwali

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Events Lite Blogs UK News

Wales Celebrates Diwali

First Minister Mark Drakeford (left) joins Indian Honorary Consul Raj Aggarwal (2nd from right) and Health Minister Baroness Eluned Morgan (centre) and Economy Minister Vaughan Gething (2nd left), and Deputy High Commissioner Shri Sujit Ghosh (right) in Cardiff

The packed Diwali celebration was attended by hundreds of guests and included some exuberant festivities, with traditional Indian music, dancing and food…reports Asian Lite News

Welsh First Minister Mark Drakeford announced plans for a new Welsh and India economic initiative next year at the official Indian government Diwali event in Cardiff last night.

Indian Honorary Consul in Wales Raj Aggarwal speaking at the event

Speaking at the event at Glamorgan Cricket club in Pontcanna, the 69-year-old Labour politician revealed the details for the Year of Wales in India 2024 which aims to create even greater economic and cultural ties between the two nations. The launch is due to take place in India around St David’s Day (1st March 2024) and other events are planned in a number of cities including Delhi, Mumbai and Bengaluru.

Naheed Bardai Principal of Atlantic College, and Raj Aggarwal (centre) and Indian students

The First Minister was joined by Health Minister Baroness Eluned Morgan, Economy Minister Vaughan Gething, Deputy High Commissioner Shri Sujit Ghosh, who all spoke at the event which was organised by Indian Honorary Consul Raj Aggarwal.

The packed Diwali celebration was attended by hundreds of guests and included some exuberant festivities, with traditional Indian music, dancing and food.

Dancers and drummers at the Diwali in Cardiff event last night

Speaking at the event Indian Honorary Consul Raj Aggarwal voiced his excitement for the forthcoming initiatives.

Raj Aggarwal said: “We are looking forward to organising several events in India next year to build even stronger links between our two nations. The main themes for these meetings will include trade and investment, education, culture and health. This is a great opportunity to consolidate our relationships to ensure greater cooperation in the coming years.”

And he added: “I’m also glad to see Indian students here tonight who attend all the eight universities in Wales. There are currently over 2,200 Indian students studying for degrees at Welsh Universities and increase of over 200% since 2016, which brings in around £200m of revenue to our educational establishments. I myself was a graduate of Cardiff University and I owe so much to the education I received in this country.”

Welsh First Minister Mark Drakeford speaking at the event

The event was also attended by several representatives from major Indian companies in Wales, as well as some Indian start-ups.

ALSO READ-Trudeau Joins Diwali Celebration Amid Strained India-Canada Ties

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Trudeau Joins Diwali Celebration Amid Strained India-Canada Ties

This comes amid an ongoing diplomatic standoff between India and Canada, which has resulted in deteriorated ties between the nations….reports Asian Lite News

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Wednesday attended a Diwali event where lighted lamps to celebrate the ‘festival of lights’ on Parliament Hill in Ottawa.

This comes amid an ongoing diplomatic standoff between India and Canada, which has resulted in deteriorated ties between the nations.

Sharing the event’s glimpse on his official Instagram handle, Trudeau wrote, “In just a few days, people across the country and around the world will celebrate Diwali and Bandi Chhor Divas. Both celebrations are about the triumph of light over darkness, and about optimism – and both are a symbol of the light we all need more of.”

“To everyone who came together for yesterday’s event on Parliament Hill: Happy Diwali! Happy Bandi Chhor Divas! I hope the celebrations this week bring you optimism for the year ahead,” he said further, extending his wishes on the occasion.

Diwali is the Hindu festival of lights which symbolises the spiritual victory of light over darkness, good over evil. This year, Diwali will be celebrated on November 12.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau recently alleged that the Indian government was behind the fatal shooting of Nijjar.

Trudeau, during a debate in the Canadian Parliament, claimed his country’s national security officials had reasons to believe that “agents of the Indian government” carried out the killing of the Canadian citizen, who also served as the president of Surrey’s Guru Nanak Sikh Gurdwara.

However, India had outrightly rejected the claims, calling it ‘absurd’ and ‘motivated’. Notably, Canada has yet to provide any public evidence to support the claim about the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar.

Nijjar, who was a designated terrorist in India, was gunned down outside a Gurdwara, in a parking area in Canada’s Surrey, British Columbia on June 18.

Notably, amid a diplomatic standoff with Canada, India had halted its visa services till “further notice” in September. However, last month, India decided to resume visa services in Canada for four categories after a considered review of the security situation which “takes into account some recent Canadian measures in this regard”.

Entry visa, Business visa, Medical visa and Conference visa are four categories in which India decided to resume visa services in Canada with effect from October 26. (ANI)

ALSO READ: Newcomers Leaving Canada Despite Higher Immigration Targets

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Events Lite Blogs

Pierre Hotel Celebrates Diwali with Glamour

The theme for the evening, “Modern Raja and Rani,” elicited a regal spectacle as attendees graced the event in magnificent lehengas, jewels, sherwanis, and suits. The glamorous sartorial tone was  set by the presence of co-hosts Falguni Shane Peacock, who dressed most of the guests…reports Asian Lite News

The Pierre Hotel, located on the iconic 5th Avenue, soared with the spirit of Diwali as Falguni Shane Peacock and Anjula Acharia along with others co-hosted the second edition of “All That Glitters Diwali Ball” over the last weekend. The occasion, known to be the festival of lights, brought a magnificent array of luminaries from all walks of life to the grand ballroom beneath the Pierre Hotel’s resplendent chandeliers.Falguni Shane Peacock with Anjula Acharia, and co-host Anita Chatterjee and the others such fashion designer Prabal Gurung Huma Abedin, Imran Amed, Sarita Choudhury, Priya Shukla amongst others orchestrated a star-studded events. The guest list included noted personalities such as Diane Kruger, Georgina Chapman, and Adrien Brody. The host committee, a testament to the event’s grandeur, also featured esteemed individuals such as Bela Bajaria, Mindy Kaling, Rupi Kaur, Padma Lakshmi, Indra Nooyi, Rohan Oza, Jay Shetty and Versha Sharma.The theme for the evening, “Modern Raja and Rani,” elicited a regal spectacle as attendees graced the event in magnificent lehengas, jewels, sherwanis, and suits.

The glamorous sartorial tone was  set by the presence of co-hosts Falguni Shane Peacock, who dressed most of the guests.The evening commenced with a brilliant display of Diwali-themed decor, masterfully produced by Exquisite Events, in The Pierre’s Rotunda room, featuring ornate murals and a breathtaking floral arrangement of white hydrangeas and cherry blossoms. As the night unfolded, guests were treated to a captivating performance by the dancers of AATMA Performing Arts. The event also saw a moving address from actor Sarita Choudhury, who emphasized the significance of Diwali, a festival that unites faith and advocates for nonviolence. In light of the ongoing challenges in the Middle East, Choudhury underscored the importance of unity and compassion. Anjula Acharia announced that a sum of 25,000 USD was raised and donated to ‘Doctors Without Borders.’

Following a delightful cocktail hour, guests were seen showing off their best dance moves in a dance off. Singer-songwriter Jean Sean set the dance floor ablaze belting off his famous numbers. The energetic and spirited atmosphere found its crescendo on the dance floor, where attendees celebrated the spirit of Diwali throughout the night. The guests then savoured in a buffet-style feast of South Asian cuisine, indulging in samosas, pakoras, pani puri, and more.

ALSO READ-Diwali Recipes with a Chocolate Twist

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Food Lite Blogs Recipes

Diwali Recipes with a Chocolate Twist

With Diwali just around the corner, the festive occasion calls for special recipes to add an extra sparkle to your parties. Mars Wrigley has got you covered with the perfect recipes infused with a delightful touch of chocolatey twist, bound to put smiles on your guests’ faces. No Diwali bash is complete without scrumptious food, and since Diwali is all about celebrations, why not amp up your dishes too?

Fill up your home with the mouth-watering aroma of delicious treats whipped up with Galaxy, Fusions, Snickers, Twix and M&Ms.  Let your culinary prowess shine as you entice everyone with your cooking and turn that party into a chocolate wonderland with Mars Wrigley’s ultimate recipes!

SNICKERS® Sweet and Salty Popcorn

Ingredients

8 cups lightly salted popcorn

2 oz dark chocolate, melted

2 bars (50g each) SNICKERS Original, chopped

1 cup pretzel twists

3/4 cup salted peanuts

1/2 cup butterscotch chips

Direction

Place popcorn in a large bowl. Drizzle with melted chocolate and toss to coat; spread on parchment paper–lined baking sheet. Let stand for 8 to 10 minutes or until chocolate is set. Break into bite-sized pieces.

Toss with chopped SNICKERS Original, pretzels, peanuts, and butterscotch chips.

Substitute milk chocolate for dark chocolate if desired.

Dessert Pizza made with M&M’S® Milk Chocolate Candies

Ingredients for Cream Cheese Spread:

8 oz cream cheese

½ T vanilla extract

1 c powdered sugar

1 T whole milk

Ingredients for Dessert Pizza:

2 T M&M’S® Milk Chocolate Candies, ¼” chopped

8 oz sugar cookie dough, prepared

10-11 strawberries, sliced

½ T chocolate sauce, prepared

Direction for Cream Cheese Spread:

Mix all ingredients and combine until smooth. Spread can be made in advance and stored refrigerated until assembly of the dessert pizza.

Assembled Dessert Pizza:

Preheat oven to 350°F.

Prepare sheet trays for baking by lining with parchment paper lightly sprayed with oil.

Roll out cookie dough to a 9″ round.

Bake for 10-12 mins until golden brown.

Cool completely before assembling dessert pizza.

To assemble, spread prepared cream cheese spread onto cookie, leaving about a 1” edge around the outside.

Scatter sliced strawberries, chopped M&M’S® Milk Chocolate Candies and drizzle with chocolate sauce.

Serve as shareable dessert pizza or in individual to-go pizza containers.

Buttermilk Donuts Made with all-new GALAXY® FUSIONS Chocolate

Ingredients for Donuts

3½ cups all-purpose flour

1 cup sugar

½ teaspoon baking soda

2 teaspoons baking powder

1 teaspoon salt

1½ teaspoon ground nutmeg

¾ cup buttermilk

4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

2 eggs

1 egg yolk

Chocolate Glaze

1 cup chopped GALAXY® FUSIONS Chocolate

2 cups confectioners’ sugar, sifted

1 tablespoon light corn syrup

½ cup unsalted butter

¼ cup whole milk, warmed

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Direction for Donuts

Preheat fryer to 375°F.

Combine 1 cup of flour, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set aside. In separate bowl, combine buttermilk, butter, and eggs.

In a mixing bowl, add wet ingredients to the dry and mix well. Add remaining flour and mix until just combined. Turn dough onto floured work surface. Roll with floured rolling pin to 1-inch thick.

Stamp out dough rings with floured doughnut cutter, re-flouring between cuts.

Carefully drop dough rings into fryer, four or five at a time, depending on fryer size. Turn doughnuts as they rise to surface with a slotted spoon. Fry doughnuts until golden brown, about 50 seconds per side.

Drain on paper towel-lined pan or wire rack. Repeat frying, returning fat to temperature between each batch.

Chocolate Glaze

Combine butter, milk, corn syrup, and vanilla in saucepan and heat over medium heat until butter is melted.

Decrease the heat to low, add 1/2 cup of chopped GALAXY® FUSIONS Chocolate and whisk until melted.

Remove chocolate mixture from heat. Using a hand mixer slowly add powdered sugar and beat until smooth.

Place chocolate glaze over a bowl of warm water and dip the doughnuts immediately. Allow glaze to set for 30 minutes before serving.

Assembly

Top glazed donut rings with remaining chopped GALAXY® FUSIONS Chocolate and serve.

Top to Bottom Cheesecake

Ingredients

·1/4 cup + 1 tbsp. TWIX® Bars, crushed, 1/2″, frozen

·2 tbsp. Caramel sauce

·1 cup Whipped cream

·1 Cheesecake slice, plain, small

·1 tbsp. Chocolate sauce

Direction

Spoon 1/4 cup crushed TWIX® Caramel Cookie Bars into bottom of chilled dish.

Top with caramel sauce.

Top with whipped cream.

Place cheesecake onto whipped cream, sinking it one-quarter of the way into whipped cream.

Drizzle dessert with chocolate sauce.

Top with remaining crushed TWIX® Bars.

Serve immediately.

Suggestions

Experiment with other flavors of cheesecake.

Utilize crushed SNICKERS® Bar versus TWIX® Bars.

ALSO READ-Ayurvedic Diet for Festive Health

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Diwali Special Drinks Spotlight: Rampur Double Cask Diwali Spiced Manhattan Bottled Cocktail and Jaisalmer Gold Indian Craft Gin

Rampur Distillery has launched a limited edition Diwali Spiced Manhattan Bottled Cocktail made with Rampur Double Cask Indian Single Malt Whisky. This Diwali Spiced Manhattan is the perfect blend of Rampur Double Cask Indian Single Malt Whisky, Sweet Red Agora Rosso Vermouth and Bittermens Buckspice Ginger Bitters. Each bottle contains five cocktails. Simply stir over ice, pour into a chilled coupe glass and garnish with a dehydrated orange wheel. A feature by columnist Riccha Grrover for Asian Lite International.

The Diwali Spiced Manhattan bottle is adorned with Diyas, which are oil lamps or decorative candles that are lit during Diwali festival celebrations.

Rampur Double Cask Indian Single Malt Whisky

Produced at India’s oldest distillery, Rampur Distillery, located in the foothills of the Himalayas, Rampur Double Cask Indian Single Malt Whisky is distilled in traditional copper pot stills. The malt matures for two-thirds of its life in handpicked American Bourbon Barrels and a third in European Oak Sherry Casks before being non-chill-filtered. 

Jaisalmer Gold Indian Craft Gin

Jaisalmer Indian Craft Gins are also produced at Rampur Distillery and the latest expression, Jaisalmer Gold also makes for a great Diwali gift. 

Jaisalmer Gold Indian Craft Gin is infused with 18 handpicked botanicals, of which 14 have been sourced from India including Coriander from Jaisalmer, Saffron from Kashmir, Nagpur Orange Peel, Darjeeling Green Tea, Gandharaj Lemon Peel from Eastern India, Nutmeg from Karnataka, Cinnamon from Kerala, Locally Sourced Rose Petals from around the distillery, Lemongrass, Bay Leaf, Liquorice Root, Vetiver, Black Pepper and Pink Pepper. Other botanicals include Juniper Berries, Angelica Root, Carraway and Cubeb Pepper. 

It takes between 150,000 – 250,000 saffron crocus flowers just to get 1kg of saffron threads and it takes many hours to handpick the flower and pick the threads. The liquid is then enhanced by Gold filtration to produce Jaisalmer Gold Indian Craft Gin. This unique production process occurs wherein the Gin slowly passes through a filter made of intertwined golden silk filament, enriching the Gin with gold ions and providing a clean, smooth and balanced taste.

The bottle is inspired by the timeless architecture of the palaces and windows carved out of yellow sandstone in Jaisalmer.

About Radico Khaitan 

Radico Khaitan Limited is among the oldest and one of the largest manufacturers of Indian Made Foreign Liquor in India. Earlier known as Rampur Distillery, Radico Khaitan commenced its operations in 1943 and over the years emerged from a major bulk spirits supplier and bottler to other spirit manufacturers to the originator of over fifteen organically grown brands.

ALSO READ: Masala Zone Soho: Regional Indian Food At It’s Best in London

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Sunak Celebrates Diwali at 10 Downing Street

The Prime Minister’s office also shared images from the event which showed Sunak lighting the traditional lamp along with his wife and later welcoming and wishing the guests…reports Asian Lite News

Ahead of Diwali, British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and wife Akshata Murty celebrated Diwali,the festival of lights, with members of the Hindu community gathering at his official residence in 10 Downing Street.

“Tonight Prime Minister @RishiSunak welcomed guests from the Hindu community to Downing Street ahead of #Diwali — a celebration of the triumph of light over darkness. Shubh Diwali to everyone across the UK and around the world celebrating this weekend!” Sunak’s office wrote in a post on X.

The Prime Minister’s office also shared images from the event which showed Sunak lighting the traditional lamp along with his wife and later welcoming and wishing the guests.

Last year, after becoming the first Indian-origin and first Hindu Prime Minister of the UK, Sunak pledged to do “everything I can in this job to build a Britain where our children and our grandchildren can light their diyas”.

 Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and his wife Akshata Murty host a reception to mark Diwali in 10 Downing Street. Picture by Simon Dawson / No 10 Downing Street

Sunak, who hails from Punjab, has said that his Hindu faith is something very important as it gives strength and resilience during stress.

“I am a proud Hindu. That’s how I was raised, that’s how I am,” he told reporters during the G20 Summit in New Delhi in September this year.

As a Chancellor of the Exchequer during the pandemic Diwali of 2020, Sunak had lit up Downing Street with diyas.

ALSO READ-Modi congratulates Sunak on completing 1 year in office

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Starmer Seeks Closer Ties with India

Starmer was joined by Shadow chancellor Rachel Reeves and shadow minister for International Development Lisa Nandy at the event…reports Asian Lite News

Expressing his gratitude to the Hindu, Sikh and Jain communities in the UK, opposition leader Sir Keir Starmer joined top members of the British Indian community, including Indian High Commissioner Vikram Doraiswami, to celebrate Diwali.

In the event hosted on Tuesday by the British Asian Trust, a charity founded by The King in 2007, Starmer lit the symbolic ‘diya’ and also addressed the Indian diaspora.

“In dark times such as these, it is more important than ever that we focus on a positive future in which we work together across communities and faiths. Only by doing so will we ensure that everyone, no matter their background, has an opportunity for a peaceful, fulfilled and happy life,” Starmer said.

“Tonight I reiterate my gratitude to the Hindu, Sikh, and Jain communities for the enormous contribution they make to this great country of ours. Your positive impact is felt across so many spheres and sectors, and that your contribution is pursued in accordance with your spiritual convictions, reflects the powerful message of Diwali.”

Starmer was joined by Shadow chancellor Rachel Reeves and shadow minister for International Development Lisa Nandy at the event.

The event highlighted some of the British Asian Trust’s achievements, including a major mental health programme across South Asia and the launch of a $50 million Child Opportunity Fund set up to give millions of children better opportunities for the future.

Chair of the British Asian Trust, Lord Jitesh Gadhia, said that the community is “delighted to celebrate Diwali with Sir Keir Starmer and we hope this helps us to shine a light on the important work we do across South Asia”.

In June this year, Starmer had emphasised the importance of “modern India” and said that “a strategic partnership with India will be key” to a future Labour government.

The Labour party has had an uncomfortable relationship with India after the party under Jeremy Corbyn unanimously passed a motion on Kashmir at the 2019 Labour conference.

But speaking on June 26 at the India Global Forum’s UK-India Week 2023, Starmer said he hoped to visit India soon and was “resetting the relationship”, and that “this is a changed Labour party”.

ALSO READ-Hindu Forum of Europe marks Diwali at European Parliament