Pink is the colour
Altruists world over have known to make millions, build wealthy foundations and then wrestle with transition issues. There are also those glitzy names who lend their star power for a good cause. But it was more than just getting philanthropists in Bengaluru together for the cause of breast cancer for Manjusha Maheshwari. “Breast cancer awareness for me is very personal, as I have lost people very dear to me due to the disease. In earlier days, we had treatment, but no awareness. For someone to profess a philanthropic cause, it has to really touch you somewhere very close,” states Manjusha.
Something that was started by the late Evelyn H Lauder to champion the cause of Breast Cancer Awareness in 1992, BCA is active in over 70 countries, including India. Manjusha is the force behind charity champagne dinners that draw a huge set of those who want to do their bit for the society. As this worldwide philanthropic effort to create awareness for breast cancer and raise funds for medical research and treatment gets set for a gala night on October 4 in Mumbai and October 5 in Bengaluru, Manjusha, a national brand consultant with Estee Lauder, reveals, “Last year and this year we have 120 seats which are already sold out. I don’t have any inhibitions asking people to donate money. It’s nice to see that the people are coming out in full support for this plush affair. But it’s not just the money for the charity; we feel that they should also be present to show their support. Every year in October, worldwide we raise funds for the cause of breast cancer.”
Talking about how women are important to every household, by income or family support, they tend to ignore themselves and their health. “They have ignored their health all this while, but if a disease hits a woman, it hits everyone and if there’s no awareness, it can destroy the family. Dealing with cancer is tough, but with right education and medication, it can be cured. There are a lot of single women these days who have only their innate group they can connect with,” she says.
Manjusha, who also has her image consultancy firm, confesses to being a consummate city person. “I’m a city girl and love to travel to places with people and life and would any day prefer a hustle and bustle over a trek in the Himalayas. I’d rather sit in a bistro in Prague or London and do people watching all day long. I also love the oceans in the south of France.”
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