Overview

• The inaugural gala on 18 October drew about 800 guests paying £2,000 each, with attendees reported to include Naomi Campbell, Mick Jagger and Janet Jackson.
• Co-chaired by Isha Ambani, the pink theme referenced the Ancient India: Living Traditions exhibition, with Indian cuisine and a performance by sitarist Anoushka Shankar.
• A silent auction offered high-profile lots such as a Tracey Emin pet portrait and private access to Coco Chanel’s Paris apartment.
• The museum said proceeds will support partnerships in Ghana and Iraq and help fund the loan of the Bayeux Tapestry next year, with the director aiming to make the ball an annual fixture.
• Ticket revenue was estimated at roughly £1.6 million as the institution leans into US-style private fundraising, drawing fresh criticism over Reliance and BP links from campaign groups.