British Palace Raised $414,000

Faith groups gathered at the Royal Kensington Palace on Thursday, November 26, to commemorate the lives of those that perished in the Mumbai terror attacks.

Over 150 international guests attended the event including television and film actor Kabir Bedi, Oscar nominated Indian film director Shekhar Kapur and Sabrina Guinness of the Youth Cable Television charity.

Also in attendance: Deputy Mayor of London Richard Barnes – who rubbed shoulders with Goldie, Newton Faulkner, Gabby Logan and Nitin Ganatra.

Part of the proceeds from the event – estimated at $414,000 – will help to rebuild the kitchen at the Chabad House in Mumbai which was destroyed during the attacks.

The event was organised by the DVK Foundation which was founded by survivor of the Mumbai attacks, Deepak Kuntawala, who shared his personal account of his escape from the Taj Palace Hotel and rescued 150 lives.

During the evening Prince Michael of Kent spoke about the war on terror and guests and speakers stood together in solidarity for a minute of silent tribute to those lost in the Mumbai 26/11 attacks.

Rabbi Bentzi Sudak, Chief Executive of Chabad Lubavitch UK, gave a heart warming address to the packed audience about the bravery and heroism of Sandra Samuel, the Indian lady who rescued Moshy Holtzberg.

“Here in the midst of the terror that gripped the world, we witnessed the best of mankind. As humans, we are all interconnected; Jews and Indians, Londoners and Mumbaikars and we must remember the strength of faith that emerged in the depths of tragedy.

“No matter how hard it was the terrorists did not win. They did not succeed. While they tried to spread a veil of darkness on the world, humanity responded with its brightest light. We witnessed the heroism of the likes of Sandra and Deepak, and the unbreakable spirit of the people of Mumbai.”

He continued by paying tribute to the work of the DVK Foundation saying, “One year on, it is our duty as keep humanity’s bright light alive and shining as strong as ever. We must remember how we united and cared for one another. We need not look far to see how this is exemplified.

“The kitchen at the Chabad House was totally destroyed during the attacks. Today I can say to you all, Deepak and DVK Foundation will help us to rebuild it again and start serving hot food to all those who need it most.”