Tag: gala

  • A Night of Empowerment and Transformation: SRLC Mission Africa Gala 2024

    A Night of Empowerment and Transformation: SRLC Mission Africa Gala 2024

    The city of London came alive with purpose and hope as Shrimad Rajchandra Love and Care (SRLC) hosted a breathtaking Gala in support of SRLC Mission Africa. The Gala, attended by over 200 philanthropists, thought leaders and changemakers, showcased the powerful impact of SRLC’s work across 16 African nations. Guests expressed their wonder at the breadth of charitable work being done, and many felt fellow philanthropists should get to know more about the remarkable projects being implemented across some of the most deprived regions of African countries.

    The event was graced by the Founder of Shrimad Rajchandra Mission Dharampur, Enlightened Master, spiritual visionary, and humanitarian leader, Pujya Gurudevshri Rakeshji.

    SRLC: A Global Movement of Compassion

    SRLC is a global humanitarian initiative inspired by the teachings of Shrimad Rajchandraji and guided by Pujya Gurudevshri. Operating through a unique 10-fold Benevolent Care Programme, SRLC addresses the needs of underserved communities in areas such as healthcare, education and community development. With 206 global centres and a track record of transforming over 21 million lives, SRLC has become a beacon of hope for marginalised communities. Mission Africa is an extension of SRLC’s vision, committed to overcoming hunger, poverty and unemployment across 16 African nations, including Kenya, Malawi, Tanzania, and Uganda. By implementing innovative programmes like school feeding initiatives, water supply solutions and vocational training, Mission Africa has touched over 5 million lives in a short span of time.

    Mission Africa Opening Ceremony

    Impactful Insights and Stories of Transformation

    The Gala evening featured a captivating keynote address by Atmarpit Nemiji, Vice President of Shrimad Rajchandra Mission Dharampur. His heartfelt speech brought to life Mission Africa’s grassroots initiatives, including the adoption of 55 schools in Makueni, Kenya, feeding 30,000+ meals to school children daily and the creation of 2,000,000 litres of water harvesting capacity annually. Amu Shah, Chairman of Advisory Board of SRLC Mission Africa and Atmarpit Mansiji, Head of Paediatrics at Shrimad Rajchandra Hospital and Research Centre and Advisory Board Member of SRLC Mission Africa, shared stories from their personal experiences in Africa. Their moving accounts highlighted how SRLC’s efforts are fostering resilience and empowerment. Attendees were deeply touched by their clarity and dedication, as well as the enthusiasm of SRLC’s volunteers, reflected in the meticulous organisation of the event.

    Amu Shah – Chairman SRLC Mission Africa

    The Gala successfully raised significant funds to support Mission Africa’s initiatives. Donations will go towards feeding children, drilling borewells, building schools and adopting entire villages to create self-sustaining communities.

    An Immersive Evening of Inspiration

    The event also featured an engaging art exhibition, “Brushed by Dreams,” showcasing paintings by African children alongside immersive elements such as a water walk and uji tasting.

    Keynote Speaker – Atmarpit Nemiji – Vice President of SRMD

    Captivating performances added a vibrant touch to the night. Globally renowned mentalist and magician, Marc Spelmann dazzled the audience with his unique blend of illusion and mind-reading, while the Gold Vocal Collective delivered an electrifying a cappella performance.

    Guests expressed admiration for the evening’s message and impact. Founder and Chairman of London Town Group of Companies, Koolesh Shah, reflected, “Africa is a continent that needs all our love and affection. The Gala amplified this and inspired us to be part of this journey.”

    Atmarpit Nemiji L & Pujya Gurudevshri Rakeshji R

    Sam Tully, Visiting Fellow at Cambridge Judge Business School, remarked, “It’s my privilege to see funds raised generously for a cause rooted in spirituality and impactful action.”

    Accomplished thought leader, writer, lecturer and broadcaster, Professor Atul K Shah PhD FCA shared, “I’m a Professor of Finance but I learned something new; this idea that in charity, you can actually profit maximise, not in a material sense, but in the sense of having purpose and meaning in life, which lifts you to levels that you never knew you could go to.”

    Water Walk

    A Legacy of Hope and Action

    Under Pujya Gurudevshri’s guidance, SRLC’s grassroots approach ensures that every contribution translates into measurable impact. By combining compassion and action, Mission Africa continues to ignite the spirit of empowerment and independence for millions. This Gala was more than an event—it was a powerful reminder of the boundless possibilities when humanity comes together with compassion and action.

    Proceeds from the evening will directly support SRLC Mission Africa’s transformative initiatives. For more information or to contribute, visit srlcmissionafrica.org, email uk@loveandcare.srmd.org, or contact Manthan Taswala at 07835 237 325.

    Atmarpit Mansiji – Head of Paediatrics at Shrimad Rajchandra Hospital and Research Centre and Advisory Board Member of SRLC Mission Africa
    Brushed by Dreams – Art Exhibition
    Exhibition
    Marc Spelmann
    The Gold Vocal Collective

  • Alia Bhatt Stuns at MET Gala in Sabyasachi Saree

    Alia Bhatt Stuns at MET Gala in Sabyasachi Saree

    Talking about the look, Alia said she chose a delicate nostalgia for “hair and makeup – an elevated coiffure embellished with intricately woven braids and soft freckles – a homage to time’s gentle caress.”…reports Asian Lite News

    Alia Bhatt attended the prestigious MET Gala wearing a saree by renowned Indian designer Sabyasachi Mukherjee, meticulously crafted by 163 “dedicated individuals” investing “1965-man hours” to make the “ethereal ensembles”.

    Alia shared her MET Gala look on Instagram, radiantly donning the saree on the carpet. The saree’s colour palette paid homage to “nature’s beauty.”

    Describing her look, Alia said it’s called the “Garden of Time – an ode to art and eternity.”

    “Timelessness is endless, and we acknowledge that things crafted with time and care, can last forever. In our journey for an Indian interpretation of this universal theme, the outfit took on a life of its own,” she added.

    “Nothing embodies tradition and innovation like the saree; in the skilled hands of #SabyasachiMukherjee, this vision found its fullest expression. We looked to the past as a guide for the future, drawing inspiration from the timeless sophistication of Indian nobility.”

    The actress added: “We focused on intricate craftsmanship, incorporating hand embroidery, precious stones, along with elegant beadwork and fringes, distinctive of the 1920’s fringe style. Our colour palette pays homage to nature’s beauty, echoing the earth, sky, and sea.”

    Talking about the look, Alia said she chose a delicate nostalgia for “hair and makeup – an elevated coiffure embellished with intricately woven braids and soft freckles – a homage to time’s gentle caress.”

    “Creating this has been quite an experience… fun and stressful in equal parts. It has taken a collective effort of 163 dedicated individuals, including master craftspeople, embroiderers, artists, and dyers, investing a total of 1965-man hours to create this ethereal saree.”

    The actress then went on to thank her crew for the look.

    “As I wear this outfit, I feel incredibly grateful to embody this exquisite creation, a testament to boundless love and painstaking effort.

    “A big thank you to #AnaitaShroffAdajania, #LakshmiLehr, #PuneetSaini, #AmitThakur, #DollyJain, and my amazing team for being the most wonderful collaborators through this ‘Garden of Time’. Teamwork makes the dream work. #MetGala2024 #GardenOfTime.”

    The MET Gala is an annual fundraising event which is held in celebration of the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Costume Institute. It is one of the most exclusive events of the year.

    ALSO READ-Alia Shines Among Time’s ‘100 Most Influential People’ for 2024

  • A Glimpse into the Academy Museum Gala 2023

    A Glimpse into the Academy Museum Gala 2023

    Hailey Bieber dazzled in a striking black dress with shimmering details. She wore delicate jewelry and little makeup, letting the Saint Laurent ensemble do all the talking…writes Olivia Sarkar

    The Academy Museum Gala in 2023 took place in Los Angeles, CA. The annual fundraiser, which always has a lot of celebrity power,  generates money for the museum’s public programming and exhibitions. There are always some undoubtedly incredible fashion moments from the star-studded red carpet.

    Deepika Padukone

    Deepika Padukone, the House Ambassador, wore a couture Louis Vuitton gown to the third Annual Academy Gala in Los Angeles. A little floor-sweeping embellishment adorned the one-shoulder gown. She accessorized the monochromatic look with a bracelet set and a pair of earrings that dangled. She only applied a small amount of blush and left her lips bare for makeup.

    Karlie Kloss

    Glamorous in a black Schiaparelli suit, Karlie Kloss was a sight to behold when she appeared. She wore a provocative cutout bralette with a dramatic train attached, paired with flared pants.

    Hailey Bieber

    Hailey Bieber dazzled in a striking black dress with shimmering details. She wore delicate jewelry and little makeup, letting the Saint Laurent ensemble do all the talking.

    Selena Gomez

    Selena Gomez, the worldwide phenomenon, was also present at the Academy Museum Gala in 2023. Her choice of clothing for the evening was a black gown with 3D floral designs made of shimmering silver around the neck. She accessorized her ensemble with a flawless diamond show.

    Cara Delevingne

    Among the best-dressed was Cara Delevingne, who wore a seductive black gown with a sheer expanse and a sculpted neckline. Her outfit was complemented by an incredible diamond necklace and bold red lips.

    Kendall Jenner

    Kendall Jenner attended the star-studded dinner wearing a beautiful crimson gown by Fendi.

    ALSO READ-UK Asian Film Festival announces winners at Closing Gala