Banquet raises 252,000 pounds for widows' children in India

Loomba Foundation, working to alleviate the plight of widows, raised 252,000 pounds by hosting British Indian Diamond Jubilee Banquet at the Guildhall, the founder and chairman trustee of the foundation, Raj Loomba, told PTI today.

"The proceeds from the charity banquet will enable the foundation to continue the education of over 3,000 children of poor widows in all states in India," Loomba said.

The Banquet was attended among others by Bollywood actor Preity Zinta, India's High Commissioner to the UK Nalin Surie, Lord Tom Mcnally, leader of the Lib Dem in the House of Lords and Minister of state for Justice and 430 distinguished guests.

The banquet also celebrated the 60th anniversary of India's Republic and Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights.

The Foundation will also hold a charity dinner in New York tomorrow, where Cherie Blair, wife of former prime minister Tony Blair and Preity Zinta will be present.