Taking centre stage
“This is India’s century” Defence Minister Peter Luff MP said in a speech at India’s splendid Republic Day celebrations. His colleague, Local Government Secretary Eric Pickles also praised India, saying the country was a “beacon of democracy” and a “buffer of stability” in an often unstable region. He went on to say that while the UK and India shared important trading and security ties, it was the community and family ties that bound the countries so closely together, including the love of cricket and curry. And that was the perfect opener to invite the many diplomats, politicians and captains of industry in attendance to help themselves to a delicious assortment of curries.

PHOTOS: PIERRE DE VILLIERS

Acting High Commissioner Rajesh Prasad welcomes the Ambassador of Nepal Dr Suresh Chandra Chalise