The Tri-State Annual Gala hosted by the non-profit Akshaya Patra on October 12, 2024, at the Newark Liberty International Airport Marriott raised an impressive $3 million to support its mission of eradicating classroom hunger. The event, attended by 500 guests, featured high-profile speakers and performers, with proceeds boosted by a silent auction. Dr. Rachana Kulkarni, head of Akshaya Patra’s tri-state chapter, expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support.
The evening highlighted Akshaya Patra’s impact, especially after the organization was recognized by the United Nations in April 2024 for its work in eradicating hunger and expanding quality education. The gala, themed “A Night of Generosity: Help Us Feed the Future,” invited attendees to engage with the organization’s initiatives.
Niren Chaudhary, chairman and former CEO of Panera Brands, delivered an inspiring keynote, sharing his personal journey of loss, which was later depicted in the film The Sky is Pink. His speech emphasized turning personal challenges into motivation for success. India’s Consul General in New York, Binaya Srikanta Pradhan, was the Guest of Honor and inaugurated the event with a lamp lighting ceremony. Comedian Rajiv Satyal hosted the event, providing entertainment for the evening’s proceedings.
