Art meets advocacy at Mash Ball 2025 in support of UNICEF India 

The second edition of the Mash Ball, held at The St. Regis Mumbai on October 5, 2025, unfolded as a glittering celebration of art, fashion, and social impact. Conceptualised by Shalini Passi, founder of the MASH (My Art Shalini) initiative, the gala was held in support of UNICEF India’s programs focused on child welfare, education, and equality. 

Curated around the theme, ‘Fashion in Films’, the evening brought together leading figures from India’s art, fashion, luxury, and social sectors. Guests including Bhagyashree, Gauri Khan, and Seema Khan added glamour and gravitas, while the red carpet reflected a rich tapestry of cinematic inspiration and couture elegance. 

Ms. Passi, styled by Mohit Rai, embodied the theme through a striking sartorial transformation — from a feathered white Atelier Zuhra gown symbolizing purity to a sculpted black Amit GT ensemble representing power and liberation. “Art is not just expression, it’s a tool for healing and transformation,” she said, highlighting the role of art-based therapy in UNICEF’s outreach. 

The curated exhibition featured works by F.N. Souza, Michelle Poonawalla, Raghava K.K., and Rocco Ritchie, alongside sculptures by Ashiesh Shah and Narayan Biswas. A video installation by Ryan Koopmans and Alice Wexell explored architectural decay, while Vibha Galhotra’s pieces added ecological nuance. Key partners Dhoomimal Art Gallery and Volte Gallery helped bring the curatorial vision to life.

Ms. Passi said, “The Mash Ball, first held in New Delhi, has emerged as a cultural platform that blends creativity with advocacy. By engaging artists, designers, and changemakers, it continues to raise awareness and funds for UNICEF India’s mission to ensure every child has access to education, nutrition, and protection. More than a gala, Mash Ball 2025 has been a movement, where art meets empathy, and creativity becomes a catalyst for change.”