CVIS Bollywood Fundraiser

The 10th annual fundraiser for Costa Verde International School (CVIS) is quickly approaching. This Bollywood Party will take place on Thursday, February 16th at 5:00pm. Niki Bhattacharya, who tells El Sayulero all about this fundraiser, is one of the many parents on the fundraising team who work very hard to make this “not to be missed” event happen.

First off, what do the funds raised from this event go towards?

All of the funds raised at the event go towards the beca/scholarship fund. CVIS has around 40% of our student body on scholarship, and this event helps to off-set that large cost.

Will you share a little bit about the CVIS scholarship fund?

The Adopt a Scholar program is designed to provide increased access for local children who are in need of financial assistance, thereby creating a more diverse student population. Local national families must apply for scholarships with an interview of both the parents and the student. An economic evaluation establishes the level of financial support for the student. Financial support is given at 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100% rates. Teachers and administration document the student’s academic and social performance, as well as the family’s financial commitment. Students who receive a scholarship are expected to uphold the values of the school, as well as a passing academic grade. All parents of Costa Verde are also required to give a minimum number of volunteer hours back to the school. Through this ongoing program, CVIS and our donors continue to support the community by providing access to quality education.

The theme this year is Bollywood. Will you tell me more about this? 

The theme is a big part of this annual party. It is considered by many to be the party of the year, so we need to go big with the décor, food, entertainment, etc. The fundraising committee puts a ton of work into this annual event and this year is no different! Although I am Indian – I actually didn’t choose the theme – it was in discussion for a few years as an option. I think people really wanted to serve some fabulous Indian food and celebrate the rich Indian culture – and that is what we are going to do! It will be a blast to celebrate Indian cinema though food, music, dance performances, clothing, etc.

Which local vendors will be preparing the Indian food and what type of dishes can one expect?

The food will be a big highlight of the night. Don Pedro’s head chef, Nick Parillo, will be making samosas, lamb kofta kebabs, tandoori fish with cucumber raita, saffron basmati rice, Indian spiced eggplant, cumin mint potatoes, and spiced red lentils. Teitiare will be in charge of making chicken curry and vegetable curry and rice. Organic Select will be balancing it all out with sprouted lentils, baby potatoes with cauliflower in madras curry bowl of baby mix greens with yoghurt/mint dressing. Naef Cuisine will be baking a gorgeous cake for our live auction, Wakika will be taking on a mango or tropical ice cream dessert and Plush Catering will be making amazing pastries.

Who is the DJ and what kind of music will be played? Is there additional entertainment?

This year we will have DJ Jess from Sayulita Musica as the DJ and Gabby Villarubia as the MC. What an awesome duo! We will also have a dance performance or two! The music will cover all the dance hits we love and also cover some great Bollywood tunes and modern music with Indian flavor – like MIA.

What is the dress attire for this event?

Bollywood fun! You don’t have to worry if you don’t have a sari or other traditional Indian dress. Just grab something colorful, throw on some gold jewelry and you are good to go! Belly dancing attire is also totally appropriate. Just get creative with color, jewelry, make up. Guys can get away with light colored dress shirts. It is all about having fun!

In the past, this event has taken place on the beach in front of Don Pedro’s. This year it is being held at Don Pedro’s Brisa Mar Palapa. Why the change of venue?

We just wanted to change it up a little bit!

Will you tell me about some of the great items you have for the live and silent auctions?

We will have a custom board from Ramos Shapes, a seat at the judges table for the annual Public House Margarita Contest, a stay at the St. Regis, fishing trips, Ally Cat trips, all kinds of services, stays, restaurant certificates, and other fun experiences!

What’s one of your favorite memories from past CVIS fundraisers?

I have only been to one – last year’s Luau, but man, that was fun! One of the best parties I have ever been to! The food was delicious and the dance party was the best. Andrea from Sayulita Dream Weddings does an amazing job with the décor and experience of the night. It is a really special night for a great cause.

Where is one able to purchase tickets for this fundraiser?

CVIS Office, Sayulita’s Friday Mercado del Pueblo, Avalos, or Purchase your tickets online. Tickets are $60 USD / $1,200 pesos.

Anything else you’d like to add?

Everyone should come out to have a blast and support the beca fund at CVIS! 

*Editor's Note: Event photos from last year's Luau*