About Us

Where Light
Meets Purpose

The story behind Toronto's premier Diwali celebration, rooted in culture, driven by community, and powered by giving.

Born from a Vision
Among Friends

The Lit Gala began as a vision among friends to create a cultural space where celebration and philanthropy are held together with intention. Founded by Akhil Chandan, Melissa Krishna, Sapna Makhija, and Aryan Raj Nigam, it is now a non-profit organization and an annual gathering rooted in the belief that culture is a catalyst for enduring impact.

Created to redefine how Diwali is celebrated, the Lit Gala was designed as an unforgettable evening that brings people together while driving meaningful change. Each year, the event supports a cause close to the organization's heart, transforming celebration into an opportunity to give back.

Each edition brings together a diverse circle of supporters, partners, and changemakers to transform an evening of celebration into meaningful collective giving, with measurable outcomes that extend well beyond the event itself.

Through the Lit Gala, Diwali has become a must-attend event on Toronto's social calendar while continuing to make a lasting difference in communities around the world.

The Lit Gala — Fairmont Royal York
Est. 2023 · Toronto
Vision

A World Lit
by Purpose

The Lit Gala envisions a world where the spirit of Diwali, light over darkness, generosity, and renewal, ignites a connected, purpose-driven community to celebrate culture, give boldly, and drive lasting impact at scale.

Mission

Celebration into
Collective Giving

To curate an exceptional, culturally rooted Diwali experience as a non-profit organization, uniting a diverse community of supporters, partners, and changemakers. We transform joyful celebration into collective giving and measurable impact, honouring tradition while driving sustainable change for the communities we serve.

Celebrate Culture
Honouring the spirit of Diwali with an evening that is vibrant, intentional, and deeply rooted in South Asian heritage.
Drive Impact
Every dollar raised creates measurable, lasting change. We hold ourselves accountable to the communities we serve.
Build Community
LIT is more than a gala. It is a space where like-minded changemakers find each other and commit to something larger than themselves.

Our Team

The Lit Gala is comprised of a dedicated team of professionals united by a shared commitment to meaningful impact, combining diverse expertise to bring its mission to life.

Co-Founders
Akhil Chandan
Co-Founder
Akhil Chandan
Melissa Krishna
Co-Founder
Melissa Krishna
Sapna Makhija
Co-Founder
Sapna Makhija
Aryan Raj Nigam
Co-Founder
Aryan Raj Nigam
Team
Amit Goel
Fundraising Lead
Amit Goel
Team
Karishma Ram
Project Coordinator
Karishma Ram
Team
Nabeela Ratansi
Principal Strategist
Nabeela Ratansi
Team
Get Involved

Want to Join The Committee?

The Lit Gala is built entirely by volunteers who believe in culture, community, and giving back. Interested in contributing? Contact us!

Volunteer with Us →

Be Part of The Story

November 14, 2026 · Fairmont Royal York · Toronto · Ages 25+

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