Cultural fusion adds to colourful entertainment

Ratna Venkat performs a Classical and Folk fusion dance

Although essentially a business function designed to reward success and enable businesspersons to network, renew and establish new contacts, the Indian Newslink Indian Business Awards (IBA) 2009 had its moments of fun, amusement and entertainment.

TV 3 and Campbell Live host John Campbell, who was the Master of Ceremonies, provided guffaws with his off-the-cuff remarks, while Prime Minister John Key won the hearts of a cross-section of the business community, with his unassuming and friendly approach (he visited every table to greet people).

Leader of the Opposition Phil Goff was at his PR best, but the entertainment segment belonged to the younger generation.

Seasoned and professional dancer Ratna Nagalakshmi Venkat performed a fitting invocatory number with a classical and fusion dance, followed in a post-dinner segment with a contemporary number.

Dharmesh Parikh, Director of Reshabh D Productions Limited organised a fashion with a bevy of beauties who had contested at Miss Indianz 2009, Sponsored by Roop Darshan, the two-part show featured the models in black sarees and other outfits. They were popular with the guests, until Prime Minister John Key began his round of meeting and greeting – he promptly became the most popular person of the evening!

Our own band of young musicians – Joseph Alexander (Electronic Drums), Joscel Alexander (Acoustic Drums), Hemant Thaker (Keyboard) and Shivam Padayachi (Base Guitar) proved their prowess, providing a soothing and yet lively backdrop.

“They are versatile and very good,” exclaimed Campbell, as they warmed up for the evening.

Our Gratitude

Indian Newslink is grateful to sponsors, judges, participants and those who attended the IBA Gala Black Tie and Dinner at the Stamford Plaza Hotel on November 16.

It is their patronage and support that has carried forward the scheme ambitiously launched last year.

IBA has truly become a brand and we are sure that it will grow bigger and better year after year.