Sudha Murty praises son-in-law Rishi Sunak ‘good Indian cultural values’

Renowned author and Rajya Sabha MP Sudha Murty expressed pride in her son-in-law, Rishi Sunak, for embodying Indian cultural values during her keynote address at Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan’s annual Diwali gala in London on Saturday.

Murty, joined by her daughter Akshata Murty and Sunak, shed light on the significance of preserving cultural roots alongside education. “Good education gives you wings to fly, but great culture keeps you grounded in your origins,” she said.

Sunak’s parents, Usha and Yashvir Sunak, were also present as students from Bhavan UK showcased traditional Indian music and dance forms like Kuchipudi, Kathak, and Bharatanatyam.

Murty lauded Usha Sunak for raising Rishi Sunak, the former British prime minister, with strong Indian cultural foundations. “Rishi is a proud British citizen with values rooted in his Indian heritage,” she said as quoted by news agency PTI.

The Indian High Commissioner to the UK, Vikram Doraiswami, reflected on the diverse cultural narratives of Diwali, highlighting its significance across Indian traditions, from the Ramayana in the north to Kali Puja in the east.

Murty encouraged the British Indian community to support Bhavan UK’s efforts in preserving Indian arts and culture. “Send your children here to learn Indian culture. When we grow older, we return to our roots, and Bhavan bridges that gap,” she said, urging contributions to sustain the organisation.

Bhavan UK Chairman Subhanu Saxena and Executive Director Dr MN Nandakumara opened the event with vedic chants, showcasing the centre’s achievements in promoting Indian arts and offering over 120 classes across 23 disciplines.

Rishi Sunak and Akshata Murty presented mementos to the team behind Bhavan’s programs, while NRI industrialist Lord Swraj Paul praised the centre, calling it a “great organisation deserving full support.”

The event concluded with vibrant performances and an appeal for donations to expand Bhavan’s summer school and scholarship programs.

(With inputs from PTI)