Indo American Charity Foundation from Gala time to Inspiration!
Society with Ruchi
Almost 700 Indians and Americans gathered to support the Indo American Charity Foundation 23rd Annual Gala themed ‘Building Bridges To New Frontiers’ at the chic InterContinental Hotel in Houston with Mayor Annise Parker as the chief guest.
The lobby at the hotel on Friday September 16, 2011 was packed with philanthropists and fashionable hotties adorned in Indian ethnic wear. It was your typical gala event, however it took an interesting turn with the real life inspirational story of Sandhya Rao, the youngest daughter of Dr. Potu and Rajeswari Rao. Sandhya’s education has taken her to great heights, she received a Bachelor of Arts in psychology and behavioral science from Rice University where she graduated magna cum laude. She received her J.D. from Stanford University Law School. She has also been recently invited to serve on the Board of Directors for the Lighthouse of Houston. The standing ovation was most definitely appropriate.
I must say it is very impressive to see a host of beautiful Indian women juggling charity, home, career and children. Take for instance the present IACF President Anu Bala who not only maintains the perfect silhouette, but also with the support of board members, managed to rock the show. So how do you stay trim and focused? Speaking to a handful of fashionistas who learnt the art of juggling and managing time, forty-something Priti looked absolutely stunning in black embroidered sari and the secret to her great figure, is watching her diet.
Sangeeta Pasrija had joined the charity organization a few years back and as always not only manages to pull out her mesmerizing smile but her talent for a good cause. Her ganesha painting was held for auction and managed to score some high bids.
It’s not all about the women. The men from our Indo American community have also been quite an act when it comes to organizing and hosting events. Gala Chair and upcoming IACF President David Raj, who is recently recovering from a surgery, but that did not slow him down in anyway. The very energetic multi talented man put together a spectacular full house.
The goal this year is to raise $300,000 and the organizers looked very hopeful. “This is the only charity that is solely based in Houston,” informed Jawahar Malhotra. With currently 18 members on the Board of Directors this charity organization has evolved with activities through the year to raise money, which included a Walkathon in Spring, followed by a Golf Tournament and a much anticipated Gala in the Fall.
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As usual guest of honor Mayor Annise Parker was punctual and delivered a very short and sweet speech reminding the community about her love for Indians and charities.
Food was catered by Madras Pavilion. My favorite was the first course tomato soup with a puffed pastry on top. The dessert pistachio and mango kulfi tasted quite good after a long day or should I say after the very later dinner. The photo booth by Digital Solution was pretty exciting and fun. Guests also received a free copy of the photo shoot they got to indulge in.
Most women at this gala wore saris and men opted for suits with no tie, only a few in Nehru jackets. Of course, Asia Society Texas Center Executive Director Martha Blackwelder always has the perfect sari for such occasions. My picks, Leela Krishnamurty’s South Indian silk sari is timeless. Sangeeta Pasrija in black reminds us of Bollywood. Also spotted looking chic and pretty, Asha Dhume in light blue net sari. Vanitha Reddy’s lace trim turquoise sari with bronze blue was a head turner.
Also spotted at the gala Ash and Leena Shah, Reji Joseph, Savita and Sanjay Rao, Viji Raman, Shaila Patel, Ashok Dhingra, Kota Reddy, Atul Vir, Guru Reddy, Randhir and Sunila Sahni and other movers and shakers from the community.
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