Desai Foundation Holds Its 12th Annual Diwali Event In NY

Photo: J’adore Andy

India-West Staff Reporter

NEW YORK, NY – More than 400 supporters gathered at HK Hall on October 16 for the 12th annual ‘Diwali on the Hudson,’ New York City’s long-running Diwali charity event hosted by The Desai Foundation.

The evening brought together a vibrant mix of philanthropists, creatives, entrepreneurs, and changemakers to celebrate the festival of lights while supporting the foundation’s mission to empower women and children through health, livelihood, and menstrual equity programs across India.

This year’s event marked a milestone for The Desai Foundation, which is celebrating 11 million lives impacted through its initiatives.

“Let’s remember that this light we share here in New York reaches all the way to rural India, illuminating the paths of women and girls who are building brighter futures for themselves and their communities,” said Megha Desai, President of The Desai Foundation. “May this Diwali remind us that joy and generosity travel together, and that when we lift others, we all shine a little brighter.”

The evening was hosted by CBS News Correspondent Shanelle Kaul and featured a live performance by Shevya, a South Asian artist known for blending traditional influences with contemporary sounds. A hand-raise auction held during the event surpassed the foundation’s fundraising goals.