Controversy has erupted over a charity dinner organized at the British Museum, as organizers chose to host it in the hall housing the Parthenon Sculptures. This move comes at an extremely sensitive time, as the Greek government intensifies diplomatic efforts for the permanent return of the ancient Marbles to Athens, with the British once again provoking tensions.
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British Museum: The luxury event with Parthenon Sculptures as backdrop
The event in question, the famous “Pink Ball” at the British Museum, transformed the sacred hall of the Parthenon Sculptures into a space for social entertainment. The event, which honored the exhibition “Ancient India: Living Traditions,” gathered nine hundred guests who paid up to £2,000 for participation. A “pink dance” that organizers described as a charitable event dedicated to art, fashion, culture, and community. The organization was undertaken by museum director Nicholas Cullinan in collaboration with Isha Ambani, sister of India’s richest businessman. The guests, dressed in pink according to the dress code, included among others:
- Former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak
• London Mayor Sir Sadiq Khan
• Famous personalities from fashion and arts
• Representatives of high society
Around 900 guests were present, while major figures from fashion, entertainment and art walked the pink carpet in front of the Parthenon Marbles. The British Museum’s decision to transform the Parthenon Sculptures hall into a dining space takes on particular significance. The tables were placed directly in front of the ancient Greek marbles, creating a controversial scene that many characterized as offensive to Greek heritage.