What began as an intimate celebration evolved into one of the most anticipated cultural galas of the year…
For Falguni Shane Peacock and Anjula Acharia, the All That Glitters Diwali Ball has gone beyond being a mere annual affair. It is now a reflection of a sense of community, celebrations and championing causes that matter.
The Diwali Ball has, over time, transformed into a tradition that Falguni Shane Peacock, Anjula Acharia and other co-hosts hold close to their hearts. What started as a shared vision—a celebration of South Asian creativity and culture—has shaped into one of the year’s most anticipated gatherings in New York City. Every edition brings with it a renewed sense of purpose and pride, and for the designer duo, being part of its evolution has been nothing short of extraordinary.
Preparations for the ball begin as early as six months in advance. From curating the theme and aesthetics to conceptualising ensembles that embody the spirit of the evening, every detail is crafted to perfection. The “All That Glitters” Diwali Ball has become synonymous with celebration at its finest, where culture, fashion, and philanthropy merge under one glittering roof. And this year was no different!
Held at the iconic Lotte New York Palace, the 2025 edition shimmered with elegance as 200 guests gathered to mark the Festival of Lights. The event—founded by talent strategist and investor Anjula Acharia—has grown into a beacon of community and purpose, honouring influential South Asian voices across industries. It’s a night where stars come together to celebrate the time-honoured traditions and to stand for something bigger.
This year’s Diwali Ball championed causes close to the community’s heart, raising funds for the South Asian Council for Social Services and King Charles’s British Asian Trust—both dedicated to humanitarian efforts across the globe. Between the clink of glasses and the gleam of couture, the evening stood as a reminder of what true festivity means: giving back while moving forward.
The atmosphere was as effervescent as it was elegant. Guests dined on a specially curated menu from celebrity chef Vikas Khanna’s acclaimed New York restaurant, Bungalow—a treat for anyone lucky enough to secure a table there. The night continued with a mesmerising performance by Indo Warehouse, as laughter and music filled the palace halls, creating an aura that was both regal and electric.
A constellation of global icons illuminated the ballroom—Priyanka Chopra Jonas and Nick Jonas, Aasif Mandvi, Avantika, Gurinder Chadha, Jay Sean, Nora Fatehi, Prabal Gurung, and Kal Penn, among others. Top executives and creatives mingled effortlessly, united by a shared sense of pride in how universal South Asian representation has come. As Kal Penn aptly noted, the message of Diwali—the triumph of good over evil—feels more relevant than ever.
And of course, the fashion was a spectacle unto itself. Falguni Shane Peacock’s creations—rich with modern glamour and traditional opulence—set the tone for the evening’s “Royal Finery” dress code. Anjula herself dazzled in a red couture masterpiece by the duo, as did Bhumi Pednekkar, Avantika, Bozoma Saint John, Divya Mathur, and Priya Shukla, each embodying the spirit of the night in bespoke brilliance.
For Falguni Shane Peacock, each year brings with it a new layer of meaning, a new reason to celebrate. And as the lights dim and the music fades, one thing remains constant—the promise of another Diwali, another gathering, another chance to sparkle for something greater!