The event honored the exceptional leadership and philanthropic endeavors of Roshni Nadar Malhotra, Chairperson of HCLTech, and Douglas Peterson, former President & CEO of S&P Global. This marquee gathering brought together changemakers, innovators, business leaders, and stalwarts from across the Indian diaspora to drive transformative social impact.
Hosted by the renowned comedian Zarna Garg and featuring a world-class menu curated by acclaimed Chef Gaurav Anand, the evening provided a full-sensory experience. Guests were given a front-row seat to AIF’s award-winning MANSI (Maternal and Newborn Survival Initiative) program through an interactive Virtual Reality experience.
Roshni Nadar Malhotra stated, “I am truly humbled to receive this recognition from AIF, an organization whose mission resonates strongly with my own. Whether it is empowering young leaders, safeguarding our planet, or expanding access to education, I believe that progress must be inclusive, and everyone deserves the opportunity to thrive.”
Douglas Peterson remarked, “My profound love for India spans decades and stems from my relationships with its people. I have witnessed firsthand how access to opportunity transforms lives. AIF’s partnership-driven model delivers that access with purpose and scale. Tonight serves as a steadfast reminder of what is achievable when collaboration catalyzes true change for millions.”
AIF’s CEO Nishant Pandey addressed the audience, stating, “Tonight is not simply about generosity; it is a collective act of belief in the power of partnership. AIF’s success is built on this very foundation: our partnerships with the Indian government at every level across the nation, collaborations with binational corporations, and connections between the civil societies of India and the U.S. Tonight’s record-breaking support not only funds programs but also highlights our collective dedication to Viksit Bharat as we reimagine what opportunity looks like.”
Ajay Banga, AIF’s Chairman Emeritus, graced the evening with his family to pay a heartfelt tribute to his longtime “mentor and inspiration,” Victor Menezes, AIF’s founder and only other Chairman Emeritus, who passed away earlier this year. The evening focused on AIF’s people—its donors, indefatigable team, and the millions of beneficiaries they serve.
During the pledge-drive that raised over $850,000, Bharat and Neerja Desai announced their gift of $1 million towards AIF’s educational initiatives, including DEEP Shaala in Amreli, Gujarat—a multi-year program with Desai’s Samvid Ventures to bridge the digital divide in middle and high school education.
This event was AIF’s highest-grossing gala in its 24-year history, thanks to the generosity of its donors, including leadership corporate sponsors EXL, Goldman Sachs Gives, HCLTech, Mastercard, and S&P Global. For a full list of our sponsors, please click here. Learn more at the American India Foundation. For queries in the US, please contact Kalpana Kanthan, Chief Development and Marketing Officer, at Kalpana.Kanthan@aif.org. AMERICAN INDIA FOUNDATION
Hosted once again by comedian, actress, author, and creator extraordinaire, Zarna Garg, guests experienced AIF’s mission firsthand through a moving VR journey into the public health program and powerful video stories from our beneficiaries and enjoyed a delectable menu by Chef Gaurav Anand.
The American India Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization committed to improving the lives of India’s underprivileged, with a special focus on women, children, and youth.