Bollywood Night promises an evening of dancing, culture, and empowerment

HUNTSVILLE – When Alka Bhargav talks about Bollywood Night, her enthusiasm is infectious. The annual gala and fundraiser for the Aum Foundation is more than just a celebration of food, music, and dancing, it’s an evening designed to empower under-resourced girls across Alabama.

“This event has really brought the community together to support the girls that we serve,” said Bhargav, founder and CEO of the Aum Foundation. “You will come away inspired and having the best time possible. I call it Bollywood magic.”

Bollywood Night is Oct. 18, in the Von Braun Center’s Saturn Hall. The evening begins with a VIP reception at 5 p.m., followed by the main event from 6 to 10 p.m. Guests can expect authentic Indian food catered by Sitar, high-energy music, live performances, and plenty of time on the dance floor.

But for Bhargav, the highlight is hearing directly from the students whose lives have been shaped by the Aum Foundation’s programs. 

“We will have three of our girls talk to you about how their life has been impacted positively,” she said. “And believe me, it is so inspiring to hear these girls overcome all kinds of odds. Today they are your nurse, your lawyer, your engineer, just phenomenal transformations that happen through this program.”

Founded in 2013, the Aum Foundation focuses on breaking cycles of poverty by helping young women build confidence, pursue education, and achieve financial independence. Its programs, Pathway to Opportunity, Pathway to Success, and Pathway to Empowerment, serve high school students in Huntsville, Madison, Decatur, and Selma.

Bollywood Night plays a crucial role in keeping those programs going. 

“If you are in a position as a business to support this event with a sponsorship, there are still a few available,” Bhargav said. “I would love to have you there having fun, dancing, and supporting our community at the same time.”

The evening is also a chance to embrace Bollywood’s colorful style. 

“The first year people came in evening gowns and suits,” Bhargav said with a laugh. “Then they saw me in traditional Indian outfits, and the next thing you know, the whole crowd wanted to dress up. And which one of us doesn’t like to play dress up, no matter how old we are?

“This is your chance to look like a queen, a princess, whatever you choose to be.”

Bhargav said she hopes the community will circle Oct. 18 on their calendars.

“This is not an event to be missed. Once you’ve been there once, you’ll want to come every year,” she said. “Come have a phenomenal time and know that you’re making a difference in the lives of young women right here in Alabama.”