Jewellers for Hope 2025: A Decade of Giving Shines Bright at IIJS Bharat

Shohista Turdiyeva
Aug 3
3 min read

Hope charity gala, organized by the Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC)

Mumbai, 1st August 2025 – The gem and jewellery industry once again proved that its brilliance goes far beyond precious stones and metals. Celebrating its 10th year, the Jewellers for Hope charity gala, organized by the Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC), lit up Mumbai with heartfelt generosity, industry solidarity, and meaningful social impact.

Held alongside the IIJS Premiere 2025 — now officially renamed IIJS Bharat — the landmark event brought together dignitaries, philanthropists, and jewellery leaders to celebrate a decade of purposeful giving. Since its inception in 2014, Jewellers for Hope has raised over ₹12 crore, impacting 20 NGOs across healthcare, education, women’s empowerment, and social welfare.

This year’s proceeds will support the RK HIV AIDS Research and Care Centre, one of India’s largest humanitarian healthcare institutions. With an incredible outreach that includes over 33,000 free medical camps and over 5 crore beneficiaries, the organization continues to serve underserved populations through a fleet of 26 cardiac ambulances and 14 mobile medical vans — offering medical aid, preventive health education, and hope across rural India.

A special highlight of the evening was the announcement that IIJS will henceforth be known as IIJS Bharat, reflecting national pride and a broader vision. In line with this patriotic sentiment, a portion of the evening’s funds will also be dedicated to supporting the Indian Army for a forthcoming social impact initiative.

Star Power and Heartfelt Moments

Actor Anil Kapoor graced the occasion as the evening’s guest of honour, adding warmth and gravitas. In a moving speech, Kapoor said:

“What I truly admire about Jewellers for Hope is how it makes purpose the main star. Behind all the razzle-dazzle, there is a sincere effort to support causes like healthcare, education, women’s empowerment, and social well-being… Every act of service matters. Even the smallest effort can help spark hope in someone’s life.”

Among the many memorable interactions that evening, a personal highlight was a special star moment where I was in the centre of attention with Anil Kapoor — capturing a photo (or two) with the icon and exchanging a few words about the power of creativity, storytelling, and purpose in today’s world.

The warmth, elegance, and genuine interest Kapoor brought to every conversation lit up the room. Kapoor’s presence underscored the event’s emotional core — blending celebrity with sincerity, and glamour with giving.

An Industry That Cares

In his welcome address, Mr. Kirit Bhansali, Chairman of GJEPC, emphasized the industry’s dual commitment to growth and giving:

“Jewellers for Hope reflects our industry’s belief that business and benevolence go hand in hand. As this initiative completes ten years, it underscores our deep sense of purpose and enduring commitment to social impact.”

Other key voices added depth to the evening. From Shweta Harit of De Beers to Sachin Jain of the World Gold Council and Sriram Natarajan of GIA India, leaders praised the collaborative nature of the initiative and the importance of embedding purpose into the fabric of business.

Vivek Phansalkar, former Mumbai Police Commissioner, perhaps summed it up best:

“The ‘G’ in gems, I believe, also stands for generosity — and jewellery, in its truest form, brings joy.”

Dinner with an Icon: A Tribute to Philanthropy

The evening also included the unique “Dinner with an Icon” charity auction, honoring Mr. M.P. Ahammed, Chairman of Malabar Group, whose legacy of ethical business and philanthropy continues to inspire. Proceeds from the auction will benefit a charity of his choosing — adding a personal and powerful dimension to the cause.

A Legacy of Hope

Since 2014, Jewellers for Hope has supported NGOs like Make-A-Wish Foundation, Friends of Tribal Society, Bhagwan Mahaveer Viklang Sahayata Samiti (Jaipur Foot), Army Welfare, Shrimad Rajchandra Love and Care, and others. The initiative exemplifies the Indian gem and jewellery industry’s long-standing culture of giving — one that has touched millions of lives.

As Jewellers for Hope enters its second decade, it stands as a shining example of how an industry known for beauty and luxury can also be a powerful force for compassion, equity, and transformation.