Raising Light 2025 to Shine Bright with Stories of Giving and Community
Fashion, music and community spirit to come together on November 5 at Bottle Bay, Baga in an unforgettable celebration of kindness
Porvorim, October 30, 2025: The much-awaited sixth edition of Raising Light is set to illuminate Goa once again. Scheduled to take place at Bottle Bay on November 5, Raising Light 2025 – Illuminating Lives with Every Flame promises to be an evening of joy, generosity and togetherness, where giving becomes a celebration and every flame carries meaning.
For years, this vibrant and heartfelt initiative by owner Ninil D’Souza has brought people together under the Goan sky to share kindness, celebrate community and light up lives through the simple act of giving. Raising Light began as a way to unite people through compassion and purpose and has become a leading charity event in Goa.
Unlike traditional fundraisers, Raising Light transforms philanthropy into an evening of shared joy with a fashion show, music and food. The charity fashion walk will feature Goan icons and influencers, along with a gala dinner, cocktails and entertainment. The evening brings together Goa’s inspiring entrepreneurs, Rotarians, artists and changemakers who believe in giving back while celebrating life.
Speaking about the initiative, Owner of Bottle Bay Ninil D’Souza says: “Raising Light has always been about community, people coming together, doing something good and making a real difference. It’s amazing to see how every year the circle grows, brighter and stronger.”
Every rupee raised through ticket sales and donation coupons goes directly to the National Association for the Blind (NAB), whose mission is to empower individuals with visual impairments through education, training and inclusion.
Co-founder at Pai Kane Group and vice chair at NAB, Gaurapriya Pai Kane has been part of the event since its first edition several years ago. “Some events truly touch the heart and Raising Light does that every single time. I’m honoured to have been a part of this since its beginning. It’s amazing to see the community come together for a purpose. I’m grateful to the team at Bottle Bay for the unwavering commitment to NAB,” says Gauri Pai Kane.
Fashion designer Monty Sally will showcase one round of his collection alongside two rounds by COMO. 45 ladies will walk for this charity show that will be styled by Pallav Ojha. Designer Monty Sally says, “Every candle we light tell a story. Being part of this gives me hope. It’s proof that when people join hands for something bigger than themselves, real change begins.”
Pallav Ojha of COMO adds, “I am so honoured to be a part of Raising Light, and I couldn’t be more excited. Seeing the energy, the compassion and the intent behind it, it’s inspiring. I’m here to help keep that light growing.”
Beyond NAB, the event this year will award remarkable organisations whose quiet efforts bring dignity and hope to countless lives across Goa.
And so, Raising Light Awards introduced for the first time will honour individuals and organisations whose compassion and commitment continue to brighten lives. Each awardee organisation will receive a contribution of ₹50,000 sponsored by entrepreneur and philanthropist Francis Viegas to help them continue their work in the community. This year’s awardees include the National Association for the Blind (NAB), Our Lady of Boa Viagem (Old Age Home), Matruchhaya Trust-Ponda, ASRO-Tivim and AASTHA- Mapusa.
Speaking about supporting organisations for their work, Francis Viegas adds: “This year, we’re taking Raising Light a step further, by honouring those who’ve kept the spirit of giving alive. It’s about celebrating light, not spotlight.”
At the event, stories of courage, service and empathy will be showcased through short films that will be played during the event, allowing guests to witness the difference these organisations make every day.
Each of these institutions stands for care in its purest form. NAB empowers the visually impaired through independence and inclusion. Bom Viagem in Calangute is guided by values of love and service, provides comfort, medical care and companionship to the elderly. Matruchhaya Trust has been a shelter to orphaned and abandoned children since 1981, extending its compassion to hundreds of patients across Goa’s hospitals. ASRO provides shelter, education and medical care to children living with HIV/AIDS, while AASTHA continues to create pathways for children and young adults with special needs through education, therapy and skill development.
The event promises an evening celebrating generosity and honouring those who live by the belief that giving is at the heart of life.
