Desai Foundation Hosts Annual Gala in New York City

The annual Diwali on the Hudson event raised funds to support health and menstrual equity programs in rural India.

Updated on Oct. 26, 2026 in Philanthropy

Flat opaque gouache-painted editorial illustration of a glowing brass diya lamp on a dark surface, symbolizing charitable light and tradition. — The Desai Foundation raised funds for rural health and menstrual equity initiatives in India during its annual Diwali gala in New York City. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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More than 400 supporters gathered at HK Hall in New York City for the 13th annual Diwali on the Hudson gala. The event aimed to generate funds for livelihood, health, and menstrual equity initiatives for women and children in India.

Why it matters

The gala helps sustain 33 active programs that provide essential health and educational support to underserved populations. Through its initiatives, the foundation works to expand access to resources like sanitary napkins and medical testing in rural areas.

The Asani menstrual equity initiative has produced 13 million sanitary napkins through five women-run production units. Additionally, the foundation has reached 716,000 people through anemia awareness programs and 193,000 individuals via health camps.

The players

The Desai Foundation

This philanthropic organization focuses on improving the lives of women and children in rural India through health and education programs.

Girl Rising

This global campaign and organization works to ensure girls have access to education and the opportunity to reach their potential.

The details

The gala included food, music, and immersive experiences for attendees to celebrate the foundation's work. Alongside the event, the organization announced a new partnership with Girl Rising to further its campaign for menstrual health education.

The gala occurred on October 22, 2026.
The organization issued a press release on October 26, 2026.

Market Landscape

The foundation's work in menstrual equity aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 5 of achieving gender equality. This expansion into a ninth state in India reflects a broader trend of non-profits scaling specialized health infrastructure to address rural disparities.

Supporters in New York City gained direct insight into the foundation's expansion plans, including its upcoming operations in a ninth state. The announcement of the new partnership with Girl Rising indicates upcoming opportunities for community involvement in education advocacy.

The takeaway

Philanthropic organizations are increasingly using immersive cultural events to bridge the gap between donors and international field operations. This strategy helps maintain visibility and support for long-term health initiatives in rural communities.