Delhi’s animal lovers embrace fashion for a good cause

It's true when they say that Delhi can't resist a night of fashion and fervour. Moreover, when they're backed with the good intention of giving back to society. Some of Delhi's most influential names and fashion designers came out to play for a first-of-a-kind fashion auction held on 25 April, 2025, in support of All Creatures Great and Small (ACGS), a non-profit animal sanctuary that aims to give voice to the voiceless. The NGO is run by Anjali Gopalan and their aim is to provide livelihood, nutrition and unconditional love to animals. Gopalan’s accolades include the Chevalier de la Légion d’Honneur (2013) and the 2025 Franco-German Award for World Peace & Rule of Law, among others. She was also named one of TIME Magazine’s 100 most influential people in 2012 and was a Nobel Peace Prize nominee in 2005.

"At All Creatures Great and Small (ACGS), our mission extends far beyond rescue. We are deeply committed to rehabilitation, providing expert medical care, surgeries, and ongoing treatment to ensure every animal has a chance at recovery and a better life. Our work also encompasses education and advocacy through community-driven initiatives like our flagship coexistence Stray Buddy program, we empower citizens to care for and advocate on behalf of animals, conduct awareness workshops, and promote responsible caregiving," says Anjali Gopalan. They currently care for 2,000 animals, including 450+ dogs and 250+ cats.

The event, hosted by Ameeta Seth, Aparna Bahl, Gayatri Shiveshwarkar, Sonali Mongia Amla and Sumant Jayakrishan, combined a live auction anchored by Fatima Mahdi Karan, and a fashion show to create a dynamic platform for fundraising and community engagement.

L-R: Gayatri Shiveshwarkar, Anjali Gopalan, Sonali Mongia Amla, Aparna Bahl, Fatima Mahdi Karan, Ameeta Seth and Sumant Jayakrishnan

Held in one of the capital's tony colonies, the gathering was intimate in scale, but magnanimous in magnitude. Fashion industry favourites like JJ Valaya, Gauri & Nainika, Gaurav Gupta and Tarun Tahiliani donated signature pieces from their archives to be auctioned at the venue. 

Make no mistake, supporters of ACGS and the organisers pulled out all the stops for this event as far as generous donations were concerned. "Every rupee raised from the ACGS Auction is allocated to the ongoing care of our animals-covering medical treatments, surgeries, nutritious food, shelter maintenance, and rehabilitation efforts."

But why was a fashion show at the helm of this incredible cause? "In the context of this event, fashion becomes a powerful tool for advocacy and change. The world of glamour and creativity brings with it a certain flamboyance—fashion shows attract diverse participants and generate excitement, making them ideal for raising awareness and funds. We are able to engage new audiences, and challenge the notion that fashion and compassion are mutually exclusive. It’s about merging aesthetics with ethics—for a cause which is meaningful and inspiring," says Gopalan. Gayatri Shiveshwarkar, co-host of the event, added, "With show director Aparna Bahl and our gracious hostess Ameeta Seth on board, we reached out to the fashion community and were blown away by the response. Leading designers along with light, sound and music professionals, photographers, stylist and makeup artists, and an eclectic mix of professional models and fashion enthusiasts–came together in a heartbeat to make the event possible."

Before archival treasures make room in your closets, they are gems in the collections of those who make them. Gauri, from the famous fashion duo Gauri & Nainika, commented, “The black dress that Nainika wore is actually one of our favourites, and the only reason she chose to part with it is because we knew it was going to get an even more beautiful home.”  

The importance of giving back to society is bigger than ever right now. Every positive initiative is a step towards a fulfilling life. The impact that ACGS has created is far-reaching beyond saving the lives of animals. Through their care work, they have encouraged and empowered women in the Selakhari village in Faridabad. Meaningful job opportunities for women have helped them gain financial independence, new job and life skills and community belonging. 

The fashion show and spirited live auction were small additions to something far larger than a night of glamour. The testimony and success of ACGS lies in the work they do and the support they receive. "Everyone can contribute to animal welfare, regardless of their ability to adopt or donate. Ordinary people can make a difference by spreading awareness, and addressing issues about animal cruelty. They can get trained by organizations and work with them in terms of animal welfare. They can participate in community initiatives, volunteer their time, or simply choose to be compassionate in their daily lives-feeding strays. Sharing our stories on social media will also help amplify our mission and reach more people." 

“This is more than just a fashion event — it’s a celebration of kindness, community, and creativity,” says Gopalan, “Every bid is a step towards saving an animal’s life.” And most certainly so.