By: Prachi Jaitly

The Michigan chapter of The Akshaya Patra Foundation USA hosted its ‘Music for Meals’ charity fundraiser on Friday, May 9, at the Novi Civic Center, bringing together community members, supporters, sponsors and music lovers for an evening dedicated to fighting classroom hunger and supporting children’s education in India.

The event drew strong participation from the local Indian American community, with attendees gathering to support Akshaya Patra’s mission of providing nutritious mid-day meals to schoolchildren across India. Blending music, culture and philanthropy, the evening highlighted the importance of ensuring that no child is deprived of education because of hunger.

Entertainment for the program was led by Sargam Desi Rhythm, whose musical performances captivated the audience. Several local artists also participated in the event, presenting cultural and musical performances that added warmth and energy to the evening.

Organized by volunteers of the Akshaya Patra Michigan chapter, the fundraiser reflected months of planning and community outreach focused on raising awareness about school meal programs and their impact on children’s education, nutrition and well-being.

Sponsors and supporters attending the event spoke about the work being carried out by The Akshaya Patra Foundation USA in addressing classroom hunger and supporting millions of children through nutrition-focused educational initiatives. Guests also praised the organization’s long-standing commitment to transparency and social impact.

Chapter Chair Sampath Prahlad addressed the gathering and shared insights into the chapter’s journey, previous fundraising efforts and community engagement initiatives. He also discussed upcoming projects, including a summer golf fundraiser and additional outreach programs aimed at expanding awareness and strengthening community participation.

The success of ‘Music for Meals’ once again highlighted the power of volunteer-driven service and collective compassion. Beyond celebrating music and culture, the event reinforced a shared commitment toward creating a future where every child has access to nutritious meals and quality education.