DIWALI CELEBRATIONS LIGHT UP THE DORCHESTER

Making its long-awaited comeback after the pandemic, One Family’s Diwali at The Dorchester proved to be an incredible night of togetherness, celebration and life-changing fundraising.

Hosted at legendary London hotel The Dorchester, the evening was held in support of Maiti Nepal, One Family’s Anti-Trafficking Fund partner. Alongside the opulent setting, world-class entertainment and high-end cuisine, the highlight of the night was a powerful keynote speech from Maiti Nepal’s founder Anuradha Koirala, who flew in especially from Nepal for the event. Known as the ‘daughter of Nepal,’ Anuradha has committed her entire life to fighting trafficking, and every single guest was captivated during her impassioned speech.

A key element of any One Family Diwali is the food! On the first ever occasion that The Dorchester has allowed external catering, One Family guests were treated to a delicious four-course Asian-fusion menu by leading caterers Refine Events, in conjunction with the hotel’s acclaimed Executive Chef Mario Varun Perera. The décor was executed to perfection by Enchanted by Syma, whose bespoke floral arrangements added stunning bursts of colour to every corner of the room and gave extra meaning to the festival of lights.

Another high point was a live performance of the viral dance sensation #HybridBharatham, choreographed by Usha Jey and featuring Mithuxjanu. Fresh from a star turn at the Commonwealth Games 2022, it was impossible to stay seated! Later on, Magic FM DJ Neev Spencer ensured the party continued into the night with a spectacular set.

The glitzy evening was immaculately hosted by Nina Wadia OBE and comedian Paul Chowdhry, while the guestlist comprised figures from the world of TV, music, business, sport, art, politics and philanthropy, as well as much-loved One Family supporters and ambassadors, including paralympic athlete Richard Whitehead MBE and sports presenter Manish Bhasin.

One Family announced a major fundraising trip to Nepal next year, to help in the fight against human trafficking. The ‘Live To Give’ Annapurna Base Camp Trek will take place in February 2023, with 20 guests instantly signing up for the epic challenge.

CEO of One Family, Sharif Banna said, “We were so happy to see everyone at this joyful and long overdue Diwali, and are extremely grateful to our headline partners, the Hemraj Goyal Foundation for supporting the event, and to The Dorchester Collection for providing such a wonderful venue”.

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