Amrita-Seattle

We are deeply grateful to Seattle-based artist Shubha Nambiar for her luminous contribution to the Amrita-Seattle Gala.

Her work celebrates the vibrancy of human emotion, the richness of color, and the quiet beauty of nature—created with a spirit of play and mindfulness. “Joy” embodies her belief that art has the power to uplift, connect, and transform the lives of utmost vulnerable at-risk children and youth.

We are truly touched that this beauti artwork will help support Amrita-Seattle’s meaningful initiatives and the children we serve. 💛

One of the most powerful moments of Amrita-Seattle’s 2026 Annual Gala was the gift of “Purpose over Punishment,” an original piece created by Dr. Akhtar Badshah, presented at the $25K+ Legacy Builder level and awarded to Rajesh Soy.

Dr. Badshah’s artistry reflects the same spirit that has shaped his life’s work as a global leader in social innovation, education, and philanthropy: a deep belief in the human capacity for resilience, creativity, and transformation. In his paintings, vivid color and expressive form become a language of empathy, illumination, and shared humanity.

Rooted in a palette alive with ochres, golds, oranges, cobalt blues, and radiant yellows, his work carries both spiritual resonance and emotional depth. Bridging abstraction and figural expression, his paintings invite us to reflect on endurance, hope, and the profound interconnectedness of the human experience.

That “Purpose over Punishment” was part of this year’s gala made the moment especially meaningful. It was more than a work of art. It was a reflection of values we hold close at Amrita-Seattle: compassion, dignity, transformation, and the power of purpose-driven action.

We are deeply grateful to Dr. Akhtar Badshah for this remarkable gift, and to Rajesh Soy for relentlessly embracing Amrita-Seattle's spirit of "Live to Serve" to advance the mission and impact of Amrita-Seattle.

❤


Akhtar Badshah .osemindset

We were honored to have Pallabi Deb, Board Member of Amrita-Seattle, speak at Amrita-Seattle's 2026 Annual Gala.

With clarity and conviction, Pallabi shared the compelling outcomes of Amrita-Seattle’s independent third-party program evaluation by PCI India—a landmark effort undertaken so we could bring greater rigor, accountability, and evidence to the communities we serve, the donors who invest in our mission, and the children whose futures matter most.

Her message was powerful: when children receive sustained, high-quality support, transformation is possible.

Pallabi powerful speech kicked off the evening’s pledge moment, inspiring our community to invest in a future built not on short-term relief, but on lasting opportunity.

Amrita-Seattle is deeply grateful for Pallabi's leadership, voice, and commitment to the mission of Amrita-Seattle.

It was a profound honor to welcome Dr. Akhtar Badshah as the keynote speaker for Amrita-Seattle’s 2026 Annual Gala. ✨

As the former head of Microsoft Philanthropy, Dr. Badshah has helped shape billions in global giving. Yet the message he shared with us reached even deeper: a call to live and lead with a Purpose Mindset.

As an author, artist, distinguished educator at the University of Washington, and the Chief Catalyst for social change, Dr. Badshah reminded us that lasting impact begins when we bring heart, vision, and catalytic innovation to the communities we serve. His words left our audience inspired not simply to imagine a better future, but to help build it. 🌍

We are deeply grateful to Dr. Badshah for sharing his wisdom and for helping us celebrate the transformative impact of Amrita-Seattle.

Want to be inspired by our 2027 speakers?
We are already dreaming up next year’s lineup. Follow us here and check the link in our bio for updates so you can be among the first to join us in the front row.

The full gala album has arrived.

Relive the night of community, celebration, and unforgettable moments as we honor 16 years of Amrita-Seattle. From inspiring performances to heartfelt speeches and joyful memories, every moment tells the story of a truly special evening.

Experience the full album here: https://photos.app.goo.gl/v2ExMmargsJyDthZ9

Spot your favorite moments and tag yourself and your friends!



2026 Annual Gala: Amrita-Seattle's 16th Anniversary!
Meydenbauer Center
Seattle Fundraising Auctioneer, Sasha Summer Cousineau
DJ Prashant
Prashant Kakad
Prashant Kakad
206 Events
La-Bonyo
Pratidhwani
Bhindeshi - Bengali Community of Greater Seattle
Third Culture Coffee
Sound Baseball
Coach Cliff

What an amazing celebration of 16 years of service with our friends in Seattle. ✨ We’re still not over the Gala energy. 🎧🔥

After an evening filled with generosity, purpose, and a shared commitment to brighter futures, Prashant's headline performance took over for the DHOOM dance party — and the room came alive in the best possible way. From the very first beat, the dance floor was packed with joy, connection, and nonstop celebration.

It was the perfect close to a night that honored not only how far Amrita-Seattle has come, but also the mission that continues to guide us: expanding opportunity for children and families, and building the support every child deserves to thrive.

Swipe through for a look at the smiles, the moves, and the pure DHOOM magic that carried this unforgettable evening to its final, joy-filled note. 💃✨

Thank you, DJ Prashant, for bringing such incredible energy to the night — and thank you to everyone who celebrated, supported, and believed alongside us.

Missed it this year? Consider this your sign for 2027. 🌟

Seattle Fundraising Auctioneer, Sasha Summer Cousineau Center Bhindeshi - Bengali Community of Greater Seattle