Dance workshop bedazzles guests

Bollywood dancing was the theme of Muskaan’s charity ball, writes Elizabeth Knight

Hearts were opened and legs were shaken at a sparkling memorable night at Thornbury Theatre in Melbourne recently. Guests at Muskaan’s ‘Bollywood Bedazzled Charity Ball’ became dance stars, enthused by the mixing skills of DJ Baba Saheed and motivated by Jhoom Bollywood’s dance moves!
Within the elegance of Thornbury theatre, they were delighted by the surprise appearance of colourful solo dancer Annabella, whilst enjoying a delicious 3 course buffet meal.  The Jhoom Bollywood Dance Group followed, brilliantly engaging  everyone with their performance and energetic dance workshop. Judging by the happy, smiling faces a fantastic night was had by all, including the honoured guests who themselves took to the floor to practice some unique dance moves.
Honoured guests at the night were Mr Raj Kumar, Acting Consul General for India; Mr Steve Herbert, State Member for Eltham and Shadow Minister for Education; Mr Jude Perera  State Member for Cranbourne and Co Chair of the Victorian Parliamentary Friends of India; and Mr Arjun Surapaneni, CEO of V.I.T and member of the Multi-Cultural Business Ministerial Council, Victoria.
250 guests across the local and Indian communities danced to the music with joy and appreciation, while being aware of their fortunate circumstances here in Australia. They opened their hearts with love and generosity for those born into less fortunate circumstances in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, at this special fundraising event from Muskaan. The guests were reminded about the fundamental importance of educational opportunity to break the cycle of poverty and disadvantage.
Card raffles, secret door keys, and table raffles as well as a ‘Silent Auction’ all contributed to funds for the construction of the Muskaan school campus. Prizes were generously donated by both Indian and Eltham businesses. Recognition was given to sponsors and donors to Muskaan, both on the program and throughout the evening.
The event was organised by Muskaan Support Australia Inc, an Eltham-based charity established by Marion and Kevin Hadingham following Marion’s experiences teaching at Muskaan, a school for children from the slum communities of Bhopal. Marion shared the reasons behind her passion, followed by friends Dharmesh Khanna and Anushri Rastogi both from Bhopal, who spoke with compassion for their hometown.
Muskaan Support Australia’s ‘Bollywood Bedazzled Ball’ was a sensational night packed with energy colour, joy and appreciation. It opened hearts with love!  Stay tuned for further events!