We were thrilled to reach the milestone of serving our two billionth meal in early summer 2016. On 27th August we had the pleasure and distinction of celebrating this achievement in the presence of Shri Pranab Mukherjee, Honourable 13th President of India, who kindly gave us immense encouragement for our work.

The celebratory event in Bangalore was attended by numerous other distinguished dignitaries, and was presided over by Madhu Pandit Dasa, Chairman of Akshaya Patra, Chanchalapathi Dasa, Vice Chairman of Akshaya Patra and our Trustee Mohandas Pai.

The festivities began with a prayer by St Joseph’s Convent School choir, and the ceremonial lighting of the lamp by Shri Pranab Mukherjee. This was followed by inspiring speeches from the dignitaries present on the dais. Madhu Pandit Dasa traced Akshaya Patra’s journey from our founding 16 years ago to reaching this important milestone. Shri Pranab Mukherjee commemorated the landmark event by unveiling the Two Billion Meals art installation, and with a symbolic distribution of sweets amongst some of our beneficiary children.