A.R. Rahman to perform at Pratham gala in New York

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Pratham, one of the largest and most successful education-focused charitable organizations in India, will host its annual gala in New York on September 14, 2019, to commemorate its 25th year.

Founded in 1995, Pratham is recognized today for developing effective solutions that have enabled millions of underprivileged children to learn more effectively.

The evening will consist of cocktails and dinner at Cipriani Wall Street, followed by an intimate Sufi music concert by the legendary Indian composer and musician A. R. Rahman, according to a press release.

A two-time Oscar winner, Rahman is popularly known as the man who has redefined contemporary Indian music. He has sold more than 150 million copies of his work comprising of music from more than 100 film soundtracks and albums in more than a half dozen languages, including landmark scores such as “Roja,” “Bombay,” “Dil Se,” and “Slumdog Millionaire.”

“By delivering learning at scale, Pratham is having a profound impact on India’s education crisis. Not only is the organization helping children build strong foundations for the future; it is also building stronger families and communities,” said Pratham USA Chairman Deepak Raj, in a statement. “We are grateful to our supporters and delighted that A.R. has agreed to come to New York specifically to support Pratham. It is going to be a truly memorable evening for a noble cause.”

Pratham CEO Dr. Rukmini Banerji will give the keynote address outlining her vision for the future. She will be joined on stage by twin sisters Anjali and Anchal Purabiya, both graduates of Pratham’s Second Chance program, which assists female dropouts in attaining their secondary school diplomas. The twins are competitive athletes who dream of winning an Olympic medal someday.

“The 2019 gala will continue the decade-long tradition of bringing the tri-state community together to support Pratham. Every year we have seen an increase in the amount donated to support Pratham’s mission. I hope this year the community will continue to show their generosity as we come together to achieve new fundraising milestones for this very worthy cause,” said Rahul Mahajan, president of Pratham’s NY Tri-State chapter. “We are delighted to welcome in addition to our committed sponsors, several new companies this year including Better.com, Persistent Systems and Plus 1 Multiline by Orbic.”

Pursuing its mission of “every child in school and learning well,” Pratham promotes basic literacy as a means to establish a secure foundation for learning, both in and out of school. Pratham collaborates with governments, communities, educators, and industry to focus on innovative ways to address gaps in India’s education system. By bridging the divide between stakeholders, Pratham raises standards and increases accountability, thereby transforming the lives of children, families and entire communities.

Pratham’s vast network spans 21 Indian states and has reached more than 60 million children and youth since its inception. Pratham’s work has been recognized through major International awards, including the Asia Game Changer Award, the BBVA Frontiers of Knowledge Award, the WISE Prize for Education, the Henry R. Kravis Leadership Prize, the Skoll Award for Social Entrepreneurship, and most recently the 2018 LUI Che Woo Prize in the Positive Energy category.

Pratham USA is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with 14 chapters across the United States that raise awareness and mobilize financial resources. The volunteer-driven organization ranks among the top 3% of all nonprofits in America, consistently achieving a four-star rating from Charity Navigator for “sound fiscal management” and “commitment to accountability and transparency.”