It was to be a celebration of 60 years of the WIA UK, but the Pandemic struck and the world went into lockdown. The grand Gala Ball to celebrate our Diamond Jubilee was deferred by two years, until the world came back to order.
We had a celebration of the spirit and commitment of 62 years of the WIA on the 25th of June 2022, with the Indian Summer Ball.
It was held at the newly refurbished Biltmore Hotel on Grosvenor Square, Mayfair. The Ball was attended by luminaries and friends and supporters of the WIA.
The event began with a drinks reception where besides meeting each other, guests were entertained by John Danbury performing magic tricks. The guests then moved to the Ballroom and settled down for an evening of delightful food, music and fundraising.
The Rt Hon Sajid Javid, Secretary of State for Wealth and Social Welfare, graciously attended as the Chief Guest. He was extremely complimentary in his speech, making special mention of the exemplary work that the WIA has been doing quietly for the past 62 years. New Patrons of the WIA, Lady Renu Ranger of Mayfair and Ms. Gurinder Chadha OBE were announced by Aseela Goenka, the Chairperson. A moment of sadness was introduced upon the remembrance of our wonderful Patron Lady Aruna Paul, who passed away that year.
Our oldest member, Mrs. Raj Nayyar who was attending the Ball at a sprightly 94 years of age was felicitated by the YWIA Chairperson Piyushaa Newatia.
Among the distinguished guests were Mr Gopi Hinduja, who along with his brother gave a heartfelt speech lauding the WIA’s work for the under-served. Other distinguished guests were Baron Ramy Ranger, The Cultural Director of the Nehru Centre, and the author Amish Tripathi, Sir Graham Brady MP and his wife Lady Victoria Brady, The Hon. Daniel Kawczynski MP, Dr Maurizio Bragagni OBE, Mrs Luba Chernukhin, and the Footballer Emile Heskey.
A lively bidding war was conducted by John Danbury, he made sure that the exciting Live Auction prizes fetched generous funds for us to continue our work. The Silent Auction had many people bidding and winning prizes like holidays, dining experiences, paintings, clothes and other sought after items.
The ethereal Raageshwari Swaroop, a long-time friend of the WIA entertained the guests with her energetic singing and dancing. She got the guests onto the dance floor with some beautiful melodies. The evening continued with lively dance music by DJ Raj until it was time for the guests to depart.
With great humbleness and gratitude towards our supporters and donors, we collected over £100,000 at the Indian Summer Ball.
Aseela Goenka
2019-2022, Chairperson of WIA UK
