Landmark DFW fundraiser celebrates Ekal’s mission, Sanskar, local talent and community service
Garland, Texas: Ekal Vidyalaya Foundation DFW Chapter marked a major milestone in its mission to serve rural and tribal Bharat, raising approximately $222,000 in donations and pledges through its recent community fundraising campaign and August 28 event at the Granville Arts Center in Garland.
The support generated through the campaign has the potential to impact approximately 342 villages across Bharat. This includes support equivalent to 252 Ekal schools, together with approximately three special development projects expected to reach about 30 villages each – another 90 villages. Together, the effort represents potential impact across approximately 342 villages.
The achievement reflects an exceptional response from the Dallas-Fort Worth community and represents one of the strongest fundraising efforts in the chapter’s history. The event reached or surpassed multiple DFW chapter benchmarks, including one of the highest levels of attendance, amount raised, and participation by unique donors and supporters. The Ekal DFW team raised the bar for future chapter initiatives through broad community engagement,
disciplined teamwork and a shared commitment to Ekal’s mission.
Attendees were welcomed with a sumptuous dinner provided by Sai Curry before the program, creating an atmosphere of fellowship and community.
A special strength of the evening was its celebration of DFW’s own local talent. Ekal believes that education is strengthened by Sanskar – values, character and cultural grounding – together with India’s creative arts and heritage. These foundational values help connect generations, nurture identity and inspire service to society.
Culture became a meaningful bridge to Ekal’s mission through “Kathak on the Silver Screen,” presented by DFW-based Kathak Rhythms under the leadership of Guru Akhila ji and Harsha ji. The local artists brought classical Indian traditions to the stage while reinforcing Ekal’s emphasis on Sanskar, cultural heritage and community engagement.
The evening brought together donors, sponsors, community organizations, civic leaders, volunteers, families and supporters around one purpose: empowering rural and tribal communities through education and holistic village development.
“We are deeply grateful to the DFW community. Approximately $222,000 in support and the potential to touch 342 villages represent much more than numbers – they represent education, opportunity, Sanskar and sustainable development for communities across Bharat. Every donor, sponsor, volunteer, community partner and guest helped make this possible,” said Meenu Suhalka, President of Ekal Vidyalaya DFW Chapter.
The program opened with a heartfelt Shraddhanjali to late Dhiren Kuntawala, the first President of Ekal DFW, honoring his leadership, dedication and contribution to establishing Ekal’s presence in the Dallas-Fort Worth community.
The evening also included the ceremonial lighting of the diya, the national anthems of the United States and India, recognition of distinguished guests and civic leaders, and an inspiring presentation on Ekal’s work and impact.
The success of the campaign was made possible by the collective efforts of Ekal DFW volunteers and leadership, generous donors and sponsors, youth volunteers, community organizations, media and marketing partners, and hundreds of supporters who participated in the event and fundraising outreach.
With approximately $222,000 raised and 342 villages potentially impacted, Ekal DFW has established a new benchmark for what a committed local chapter and a generous community can accomplish together. The chapter looks forward to building on this momentum and expanding Ekal’s reach to even more communities across rural Bharat.
About Ekal Vidyalaya
Ekal Vidyalaya is a people’s movement dedicated to the holistic development of rural and tribal communities in Bharat. Its approach combines foundational education with Sanskar, cultural values and creative traditions, while also advancing health awareness, skill development, digital literacy, economic empowerment and sustainable village development. Ekal believes education rooted in values and community participation can become the foundation for lasting transformation.
