Maharaja Gala

Photos: Christina Gapic

Décor Images

Photos: Milne Studios

Rose petals and candlelight carpeted the steps of the Art Gallery of Ontario in traditional welcome as more than 450 guests — many in brilliant South Asian dress — arrived for the glittering Maharaja Gala on Saturday, November 13. Coveted tickets to the much-anticipated fundraising event, co-chaired by Laura Rapp and filmmaker Deepa Mehta, included an exclusive first preview of the exhibition Maharaja: The Splendour of India’s Royal Courts.

Inside, the Gallery had been transformed into a dazzling space that showcased the richness of Indian culture. As guests enjoyed cocktails in Walker Court, the music of internationally acclaimed Toronto ensemble Autorickshaw set the stage for an unforgettable evening of music, entertainment and splendid food. Spectacular paper lanterns strung from the ceiling of Baillie Court heralded a sumptuous Indian-inspired feast prepared by AGO executive chef Anne Yarymowich and her talented staff. Beautiful Kathak dancers from SAMPRADAYA Dance Creations and DK Bollywood Dance Pak thrilled guests with their energetic performances. Following dinner, The Tabla Guy, Gurpreet Chana, along with Paul ‘The Drummer’ Nanuwa and DJ Kamran, had people on the dance floor until late into the night.

Thank you to our generous sponsors and guests who made these evening such a tremendous success. We would like to express our sincere appreciation to our dedicated committee whose leadership and creativity helped shape the vision for this memorable evening.

Gala Co-chairs
Deepa Mehta & Laura Rapp

Gala Committee