Princely India’s heritage showcased at New Jersey home

In a unique celebration that transformed a New Jersey home into a royal Indian showcase, Beyond Media Inc. President Sonalika Ahuja hosted an exclusive Diwali presentation of Royal Fables, offering the Indian diaspora a taste of their rich cultural heritage.

In a rare gathering, Ahuja convened like-minded folks to her abode to experience a curated collection, handmade and crafted within royal palaces and legendary design studios of India.

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“It was a fabulous opportunity to blend, culture, heritage, clothing and jewelry — a theme that aligns so well with the Diwali festivities. There was also a social impact in mind along with the social and the cultural elements to this gathering,” said Ahuja about the event,

Royal Fables, celebrating its 14th year, stands as the premier platform promoting the culture, cuisine, and craft of princely India. Its founder, Anshu Khanna, recipient of the prestigious Nari Shakti Puraskar — India’s highest civilian honour for women — has successfully revived over 40 palace studios run by young royals, preserving centuries-old traditions for future generations.

“America feels like home for us as this is the third time we have showcased in this country. Working with Sonalika was an overwhelmingly positive experience,” remarked Khanna, highlighting the growing global appreciation for India’s royal heritage.

Ahuja transformed her residence into a royal Indian salon, where traditional aesthetics met contemporary elegance. This edition of Royal Fables in New Jersey showcased rare vintage pieces of jewels from Ganeshi Lal, a collection of contemporary wear inspired by Phulkari by Aab label from Amritsar, a series of free flowing kaftans from Five Elements with metal detailing, a fine collection of capes by Jaykirti the rani of Baria, finely woven saris from Saffron House (a Chennai based weaver’s studio), and gorgeous jewlery by Priyana put together by Priya Sethi.

The event drew 80-90 distinguished guests all through the day, including notable presence from the Indian American community. A highlight was the appearance of Ritu Singh from the Alkatara royal family, who engaged in an enlightening conversation with Anshu Khanna about royal Diwali traditions and her family’s legacy connecting to Rana Pratap Singh.

An added dimension that lent even more oomph to the day was the showcasing of Jewelry by Priyana by Priya Sethi. Said Sethi, “It was an exquisite event hosted by Sonalika in her stunning, warm and welcoming home. The showcasing of Royal Fables’ majestic collections inspired by India’s royal heritage was made unforgettable by Sonalika’s gracious hospitality, encounters with royalty and mingling with an elegant crowd.”

The cultural experience was enhanced by traditional Indian delicacies — from homemade mithai and kebabs to Chettinad chicken and Moradabadi dal — all thoughtfully prepared to honour Indian culinary traditions. The attendees also savoured authentic Kashmiri Kahwa on the beautiful fall afternoon.

True to Diwali’s spirit of giving, Ahuja, reflecting her philanthropic spirit, has dedicated and contributed a portion of the event’s proceeds through the platform NYUPLIFT initiative to support the elderly in need in Haldwani, Uttarakhand, a state nestled in the shadow of the Himalayas. Working with the Vande Matram Group in Haldwani, the funds will provide essential winter supplies like blankets and sweaters.

For the Indian diaspora, such events serve as vital bridges to their homeland, allowing them to experience and share their cultural heritage with one another and with the next generation.

This unique Diwali celebration not only showcased the grandeur of India’s royal heritage but also demonstrated how cultural traditions can be meaningfully preserved and shared across continents while making a positive impact on society.

(Sruthakeerthy Sriram is a lawyer and public policy professional)