Before the glittering guests arrive at New York City’s annual Diwali Ball, host Anjula Acharia embarks on a meticulously planned day of preparations. Her journey from dawn to dusk ensures every detail beautifully honors the Hindu festival of lights.
NEW YORK – As the vibrant hues of autumn begin to settle over New York City, the anticipation for Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights, builds. For many, the highlight of the season is the annual Diwali Ball hosted by venture capitalist and philanthropist Anjula Acharia. But before the glittering guests arrive and the festivities commence, Acharia navigates a meticulously planned day of preparations, ensuring every detail reflects the spirit of the occasion.
Her day typically begins long before the first guest is due, often with a moment of quiet reflection before the whirlwind of activity. “Diwali is more than just a party; it’s a profound celebration of light, hope, and the triumph of good over evil,” Acharia explains. “For me, preparing for the ball is an extension of that reverence, a way to honor our traditions and share their beauty with others.”
Morning: Setting the Stage
The early hours are dedicated to last-minute logistical checks and overseeing the transformation of the chosen venue. Acharia is known for her hands-on approach, ensuring the decor embodies the rich cultural tapestry of Diwali. This often includes supervising the arrangement of thousands of marigolds, the placement of traditional diyas (oil lamps), and the final touches on elaborate rangoli designs that adorn the entrance.
“Every detail, from the scent of jasmine to the shimmer of the silk drapes, is chosen to evoke a sense of warmth, tradition, and profound joy,” Acharia notes, emphasizing the sensory experience she aims to create for her guests.
Concurrently, her team coordinates with caterers, reviewing the extensive menu of traditional Indian delicacies and contemporary fusion dishes. The goal is to offer a culinary journey that complements the visual splendor of the event.
Afternoon: Personal Transformation
As the afternoon progresses, Acharia shifts her focus to her own preparations. Her attire for the Diwali Ball is always a centerpiece, often a custom-designed lehenga or an elegant sari, chosen for its intricate embroidery and vibrant colors. This process is not merely about fashion but about cultural expression and respect for the festival’s grandeur.
A team of stylists and makeup artists arrive, helping her achieve a look that is both regal and reflective of her personal style. The hours spent on hair, makeup, and draping her exquisite outfit are moments of calm before the storm, allowing her to mentally prepare for the evening ahead. She often selects jewelry passed down through generations or pieces that carry significant cultural symbolism.
Evening: Anticipation and Welcome
By late afternoon, Acharia is fully adorned, her personal transformation mirroring the venue’s readiness. She takes a final walk through the ballrooms, ensuring everything is perfect, from the lighting to the music selection. It’s a moment of quiet satisfaction, seeing months of planning culminate into a spectacular vision.
“It’s a whirlwind of a day, undoubtedly, but seeing everything come together and knowing the joy and cultural connection it brings to our guests makes every minute worthwhile,” she reflects, her voice imbued with a mix of excitement and contentment.
As the first guests begin to arrive, greeted by the soft glow of countless lights and the melodious strains of traditional music, Anjula Acharia stands ready, not just as the host, but as a guardian of tradition, eager to share the illuminating spirit of Diwali with the world.
Source: Read the original article here.
