The 10th edition of Jewellers for Hope, the flagship charity fundraiser by the Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC), lit up Mumbai with compassion, commitment and a celebration of social impact. Held alongside IIJS Premiere 2025, the landmark edition brought together industry leaders, philanthropists, and dignitaries to honour a decade of meaningful giving.

Organised in partnership with De Beers Group and World Gold Council, powered by GIA, and co-partnered by HRD Antwerp, this milestone evening paid tribute to the transformative power of collective effort. Since its inception in 2014, Jewellers for Hope has contributed over ₹12 crore to 20 NGOs working across healthcare, education, women’s empowerment, and social welfare.

The funds raised this year will support the RK HIV AIDS Research and Care Centre, a beacon of humanitarian healthcare in India. With over 33,000 free medical camps conducted and more than 5 crore individuals reached across the country, its impact is both expansive and deeply transformative. Backed by a dedicated team of doctors — many of whom head departments in leading hospitals across 50+ Indian cities — the organization has delivered an extraordinary range of services: distributing over 37 lakh spectacles, 3.5 lakh wheelchairs, performing nearly 1 lakh surgeries, and offering more than ₹500 crore worth of free medicines to those in need.

Their commitment to reaching the unreached is powered by a fleet of 26 advanced cardiac ambulances and 14 mobile medical vans, which travel tirelessly to the most remote and underserved regions, including villages in West Bengal, Jharkhand, Maharashtra, and beyond — delivering not just medical aid, but also health education, preventive screenings, and hope.
A special announcement was also made about GJEPC’s recent approval to rename IIJS as IIJS Bharat — a move welcomed with pride by the industry. In honour of this national sentiment, a portion of the evening’s funds will also be contributed to the Indian Army, towards a meaningful project to be announced.

The evening’s emotional high point came with the appearance of Anil Kapoor, whose charisma and sincerity struck a chord with the audience. Known for his versatile performances and ageless appeal, Kapoor also carries a quiet legacy of giving back.

Speaking about Jewellers for Hope, Anil Kapoor said, “It’s a real honour to be part of Jewellers for Hope 2025, a thoughtful initiative by the Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council that unites the gem and jewellery community for a greater good. As an actor and storyteller, I’ve been incredibly lucky to receive the love and affection of people across India. I’ve always felt that with this love comes with a responsibility to give back, to support real change, and to stand by those who are quietly making a difference.

What I truly admire about Jewellers for Hope is how it makes purpose the main star. Behind all the razzle-dazzle, there is a sincere effort to support causes like healthcare, education, women’s empowerment, and social well-being.
Every act of service matters. Even the smallest effort can help spark hope in someone’s life. I’m genuinely grateful to be part of this journey and I applaud GJEPC for continuously championing those who are doing good work, often behind the scenes.

I hope this evening is a memorable one — an evening that celebrates not just beauty, but also compassion.”

In his opening address, Kirit Bhansali, Chairman of GJEPC, reflected on the journey, “Jewellers for Hope reflects the gem and jewellery industry’s enduring belief that business and benevolence go hand in hand. For decades, the industry has contributed not only in economic growth but in building a more inclusive and compassionate society—through education, healthcare, and disaster relief. As this initiative completes ten years, it underscores the industry’s deep sense of purpose and its ongoing commitment to social impact.”

Vivek Phansalkar, former Commissioner of Mumbai Police said, “It was a privilege to witness the spirit of service that defines the gem and jewellery industry. I commend the remarkable efforts of those in the trade who not only contribute significantly to India’s economy, but also to the greater social good. The ‘G’ in gems, I believe, also stands for generosity—and jewellery, in its truest form, brings joy. This industry has brought both generosity and joy into the lives of thousands, uplifting communities and setting a powerful example of responsible success.”

Shweta Harit, Senior Vice President, De Beers, said, “Moments like these aren’t just ceremonial—they carry real purpose. They create opportunities, they spark change. At De Beers, we’ve long believed that making a positive difference shouldn’t be treated as a side effort—it needs to be deeply woven into how we operate. It’s about fostering a culture where contributing to people and communities is simply part of what we do every day."

Sachin Jain, Regional CEO India, World Gold Council said, “There’s something profound about coming together like this. Individually, we can all do good—but together, we can achieve something truly great. That, to me, is the spirit of this initiative. As an industry, we often speak of CSR, but it must go beyond charity or compliance. It should become a mindset—a way of thinking that shapes every decision we take. And more importantly, it should be sustained. Not just one year or ten, but year after year, as a shared responsibility.”

Sriram Natarajan, Managing Director, GIA India said, “GIA is proud to support Jewellers for Hope—an initiative that highlights the humanitarian side of our industry. It's inspiring to see how platforms like this bring together purpose and partnership to drive meaningful impact. We commend the extraordinary work of the R.K. HIV AIDS Research and Care Centre, whose reach and compassion have touched millions of lives. Together, through shared commitment, we are building a more inclusive and hopeful future.”

Shaunak Parikh, Vice Chairman, GJEPC said, “Jewellers for Hope is a testament to the kind of change we can bring when we align purpose with passion. It reflects the compassionate side of our industry that often works quietly behind the scenes to bring hope, dignity, and opportunity to countless lives. As we mark 10 years of this incredible journey, it’s a moment to pause and reflect—not just on the funds raised, but on the futures rebuilt. I hope this milestone encourages many more members of our trade to step forward and carry the torch of giving. Because in every life we touch, we also uplift our own.”

The finale saw a heartfelt tribute to M.P. Ahammed, Chairman of Malabar Group, whose legacy of ethical business and philanthropy was celebrated through the unique “Dinner with an Icon” auction, with all proceeds benefiting a charity of his choice.

Courtesy : AOJ Desk News