Sakhi Raises Over $1 Million, Unveils New Identity At 35th Anniversary Gala

Photo: Gala Attendees- Mandar Parab

India-West Staff Reporter

NEW YORK, NY – Sakhi for South Asian Survivors, previously known as Sakhi for South Asian Women, celebrated its 35th anniversary gala here, at The Glasshouse on April 26.

The event also marked a pivotal moment as Sakhi unveiled its new identity. The organization, committed to supporting survivors of gender-based violence within the South Asian and Indo-Caribbean diaspora in New York City, raised over $1 million through ticket sales, donations, and a live auction.

Kavita Mehra, executive director, and Beesham A. Seecharan, board chair of Sakhi, expressed their enthusiasm for this new chapter, stating, “As we embark on this exciting journey as Sakhi for South Asian Survivors, our dedication to survivors remains steadfast. Our new identity underscores this commitment, placing survivors at the forefront of our mission. There could be no better way to mark this milestone than by recognizing three exemplary leaders who have dedicated their careers to advancing gender justice.”

The gala, themed “Threads of Transformation: Resist. Reclaim. Rise.,” honored individuals who have shown unwavering dedication to gender justice. This year’s honorees included actress  and producer Poorna Jagannathan,immigrant rights activist Mohamed Q. Amin, and Oscar and Emmy nominated filmmaker Nisha Pahuja.

The event was attended by over 600 guests, including Sendhil Ramamurthy, Aasif Mandvi, Sarita Choudhary, Prabal Gurung, and Ali Sethi. The evening featured captivating performances by Grammy-nominated singer and songwriter Raja Kumari and other esteemed artists, adding to the vibrancy of the celebration.

Reflecting on the moment, Poorna Jagannathan shared, “Sakhi’s mission and work have always resonated deeply with me. As a survivor myself, I understand the vital lifeline Sakhi provides to so many individuals. Being honored at their 35th anniversary gala not only acknowledges my journey but also amplifies the power of survivors, reshaping the narrative.”

Mohamed Q. Amin expressed his gratitude, saying, “Sakhi, thank you for recognizing the multifaceted aspects of my identity as a Queer, Indo-Caribbean, Muslim immigrant, and leader in New York. Your tireless advocacy not only protects women and gender-expansive individuals but also pays tribute to the legacy, struggles, and resilience of countless South Asian immigrants.”

Filmmaker Nisha Pahuja shared her admiration for Sakhi’s pioneering role, stating, “As a filmmaker committed to challenging gender norms through my work, I am deeply inspired by Sakhi and its unwavering dedication within the South Asian community. Their pioneering efforts continue to drive meaningful change.”