Pearls, jewels, and a parade of gowns shone exquisitely off the candlelight at the 2024 edition of the “All That Glitters” Diwali Ball. A commemoration of the annual festival of light, the event brought together industry leaders, international stars in South Asian entertainment, and supporters for a night of dance, fine cuisine, and revelry.
One of the most coveted invites in Indian fashion, the night saw top design talent in attendance at the Pierre Hotel to ring in the holiday and represent their brands (displayed on assorted guests). Designers Sabyasachi Mukherjee, along with Falguni and Shane of Falguni Shane Peacock, shared the host committee with entertainers including Simone Ashley, Avantika Vandapanu, Tan France, Hasan Minhaj, Jay Sean, and Jessel Taank.
“Being Indian in America, somewhat rarely do we have moments like this where you’re truly with your community and peers in the arts as well. It just feels like an amalgamation of all the things I love,” Vandapanu shared.
The event’s founder, entrepreneur, and philanthropist, Anjula Acharia, held court as new arrivals glided down the grand stairs into the party. Champagne towers and proprietary cocktails sourced with contemporary South Asian flavors like tamarind and coconut were sipped as the global cadre of accomplished guests mingled. After a dinner of regional specialties (think warm, fresh naan, and creamy saag paneer), the gathered attendees took in speeches from the hosts.
“I’m so happy to see faces, new and old, here tonight – your dreams, ambitions, hard work, and dedication make this community as strong as it is today. I’m so glad to honor you all,” Anjula shared in her remarks.
After a warm series of commendations, the energy of the evening shifted into an infectiously energetic performance from Indian superstar Norah Fatehi with Amit Shah’s AATMA Performing Arts dancers, who pulled assorted guests onto the dance floor to join the fun. While the troupe shepherded the group into a night of festive joy, New York’s own Kolkata Chai Co. poured milky-sweet chai amidst platters of Indian confections, a sweet repose to cap off an evening of ecstatic celebration.