Held at the Taj West End on Saturday, in association with Elle magazine, India, this carnival supported the cause of breast cancer awareness, with its proceeds going to Ogaan Cancer Foundation, which this year will be sponsoring The Women's Cancer Initiative, Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai.

Breast cancer is the second most common cancer affecting almost half a million women in the entire world.

The World Health Organisation predicts that more than one to two million women will be afflicted by breast cancer this year and this cancer kills more women than AIDS.

The carnival was a blend of fun and fashion also. A festive environment where the guests could amuse themselves with games, tarot card readings, posing for portrait of themselves, a silent auction with designer products and works of eminent photographers and a dance performance to spice up the atmosphere. Designers such as Ritu Kumar, Savio Jon, Surily Goel and others and brands such as Cartier, Dior, and Chanel were represented.

Archana Pillai, Group Publisher from Ogaan Publishers, said: "To an extent, it is for people who can afford a Rs. 1,000 entry ticket. The philosophy behind this concept is that we get as many people to sponsor a good cause, never mind the amount, without cutting into their social life." Anila Subrahmanyam, in community services, was impressed by this event, the first of its kind in Bangalore. "People like to support a cause and have fun in the meantime," she said.

The entry fee was steep and one had to shell out more to participate in the fun facilities offered by various stalls.

Girija Jayaraj, an avid supporter for awareness of breast cancer, loved the concept of fun and a good cause together, but she declared: "Any charity event usually turns into a social event, but if it's doing the cause good, then it's a step in the right direction." In short, it was an all out party.

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