I would like to tell you about my experience at 10 Downing Street. My mother Heena and I were invited to meet Mr David Cameron to celebrate Diwali. At first I didn’t think much of it and then my parents explained he is the Prime Minister of Britain. The day finally arrived and on the day I was excused from school slightly early. When we arrived there was a queue of people as there were police at the gate checking the invites and identification. We then had to go through security, which was like the airport, but it was not too bad. As we approached the entrance, it was all shiny and black just like I see it on the news, with a big gold No.10. I could not believe I was now standing outside this famous door.
We were guided up the stairs but before that everyone had to deposit their mobile phones on a shared shelf. We walked through this grand long corridor and then went up what was a very interesting staircase, as it had pictures of all the Prime Ministers and some were in black and white. We picked up a drink and progressed to the main room. First I saw the BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir volunteers had setup an amazing display of Diwali sweets and decoration called ‘Anakut’. For about one hour we were what the adults call ‘networking’, I call it chit chat ! and there was bite size food being served. The room was very packed by 6.30pm and then I finally saw Mr David Cameron enter the room looking very smart in his black suit. He came in greeting and talking to people, look at the food display and walked up to a tall Divo to light it. He stepped onto the podium and he greeted everyone by saying ‘Shubh Diwali’. He talked about different things such as Sewa, celebrating Diwali, Unity and Values. I was impressed he knew so much about our Hindu culture, values and festivals.
I feel so privileged to have been invited to meet the Prime Minister and this experience I will never forget.
