South Asian Council for Social Services Celebrates 25th With Starry Gala

India-West Staff Reporter

NEW YORK, NY — The South Asian Council for Social Services marked a major milestone on the evening of May 21 with a powerful and heartfelt gala celebrating 25 years of service. Held at the iconic Taj Pierre in Manhattan, the event brought together more than 360 guests—including leaders from philanthropy, media, the arts, and advocacy—to honor SACSS’s legacy and energize its mission for the years ahead.

The gala highlighted SACSS’s longstanding commitment to empowering underserved communities across New York City. Guests reflected on the organization’s transformative work in expanding health care access, operating a culturally conscious food pantry, building workforce development pathways, and providing essential services for seniors. Through a dynamic program of tributes, performances, and calls to action, the evening underscored the organization’s vital role as a lifeline for immigrant families.

Among the honorees were Kalpana Bhatia and Anita Bhatia of the Ramesh and Kalpana Bhatia Family Foundation, recognized for their visionary leadership in advancing health and education equity.

Other luminaries honored included Grammy-winning artist Chandrika Tandon for her impact on SACSS’s senior programs and her innovative use of music for healing; culinary icon Madhur Jaffrey, credited with transforming global perceptions of Indian cuisine; Padma Lakshmi, the Emmy-nominated host and vocal advocate for immigrant and women’s rights; and Dr. Bobbi Nassar, a lifelong champion of global mental health and refugee support.

The keynote was delivered by Moumita Rahman, a prominent attorney and Bangladeshi immigrant whose legal advocacy has changed the lives of countless survivors of domestic violence, trafficking, and persecution. CBS News correspondent Shanelle Kaul served as host for the evening, which also featured special appearances by designer Prabal Gurung and entrepreneur Anjula Acharia in a lively fireside chat on creativity and social impact. Actor and activist Aasif Mandvi lent his voice to the program, emphasizing the vital role of storytelling in justice work.

“For 25 years, SACSS has dedicated itself to empowering immigrant communities throughout New York,” said Sudha Acharya, Executive Director of SACSS. “This celebration was both a tribute to those who inspire our work and a recommitment to the future we’re building.”

Since its founding in 2000, SACSS has become a trusted pillar for South Asian and immigrant communities, offering culturally responsive services in health, food security, mental health, civic engagement, and more. Funds raised from the 25th Anniversary Gala will help SACSS continue to expand its reach and impact, the organization said.