Rishad Tobaccowala delivers keynote address as Rex & Kosha perform and comedian Ojas Rawal entertains guests.

By: Staff Writer

Philanthropists, community leaders and supporters came together at the Akshaya Patra Chicago Gala to support the foundation’s mission of fighting classroom hunger and expanding educational opportunities for children across India.

The fundraising evening brought together members of the Indian American community and other well-wishers for a celebration combining philanthropy, inspiration and entertainment. The event highlighted the vital connection between proper nutrition and education, with contributions supporting Akshaya Patra’s school meal programs.

A highlight of the evening was the keynote address by Rishad Tobaccowala, an internationally recognized business strategist, author and former chief growth officer of Publicis Groupe. Known for his insights into leadership, technology and the changing business landscape, Tobaccowala inspired attendees to reflect on the importance of collective responsibility and meaningful social impact.

The gala also featured lively performances by Rex & Kosha, whose music brought energy and joy to the gathering. Comedian and actor Ojas Rawal kept the audience laughing with his humor and engaging stage presence, adding a lighthearted touch to the charitable occasion.

However, the central purpose of the evening remained the children whose lives are being transformed through access to nutritious meals and education.

Founded in 2000, The Akshaya Patra Foundation works with government partners to provide freshly prepared meals to children in government schools and Anganwadi centres across India. Its work supports the national PM POSHAN initiative, formerly known as the Mid-Day Meal Scheme.

According to the foundation’s published information, its program serves more than 2.35 million children across 25,768 schools and Anganwadi centres in 16 states and three union territories. By helping address classroom hunger, the organization seeks to encourage school attendance, improve concentration and support children’s learning.

Following the gala, organizers expressed heartfelt gratitude to everyone who attended, donated and helped make the event successful. They emphasized that every contribution helps sustain meal programs and create educational opportunities for children in need.

The fundraiser also reflected the Indian American community’s continuing commitment to social development in India. Through charitable giving and community engagement, supporters can help ensure that children have a stronger foundation for learning and a better chance of building successful futures.

The message of the evening was clear: a nutritious meal can be much more than food. It can represent hope, opportunity and a pathway to education.

Through the generosity of its supporters, Akshaya Patra continues working toward a future in which hunger does not stand between a child and the opportunity to learn.