Ramadan, the holy month of blessings, reflection, and togetherness, provided an opportunity to spread joy and create meaningful connections. In the spirit of giving, Funun Arts Group, in collaboration with Daftar Restaurant and supported by AGH Events, organized CHERISH, a heartfelt and artistic Iftar that beautifully blended art and community engagement on March 21st.
Now in its 6th edition, CHERISH continued to uphold Funun Arts Group’s vision of giving back to society. This year, 12 students from SNF Development Center teamed up with 12 talented artists from Funun Arts Group to co-create 12 unique artworks, celebrating creativity and inclusivity. Through vibrant colors and expressive strokes, the participants crafted masterpieces that symbolized happiness, unity, and the power of art in bridging hearts.
The event brought together not only artists and students but also a wider community that believed in the transformative power of art. Each artwork became a testament to the collaboration between young talents and experienced artists, showcasing a blend of imagination, dedication, and skill. The energy in the room was palpable as the artists and students immersed themselves in their creative processes, sharing ideas, laughter, and inspiration.
Shiba Khan and Farah Khan, founders of Funun Arts Group, expressed their deep connection with this initiative, saying, “We have been working with SNF Development Center for the past eight years, and every interaction with these incredible students has been a learning experience. They are highly talented, expressive, and bring boundless energy to art.”
The event was more than just an artistic endeavor—it was a moment of unity, inclusivity, and celebration. It provided a platform where students with determination could freely express themselves through the universal language of art. The resulting artworks were not only visually stunning but also carried deep emotional significance, reflecting personal stories, dreams, and aspirations.
Daftar Restaurant, DIFC, was honored to host this special event, emphasizing the importance of supporting noble causes. Isheeta Sharma, founder of Daftar Restaurant, shared her thoughts, stating, “The best gift we can give to others is a smile on their face. Children are the future of tomorrow, and in the spirit of Ramadan, we were honored to welcome them to Daftar for this special event with Funun Arts Group and SNF Center Kids.”
The participating artists included: Alina Babenko, Chandralekha Dubey, Dr. Poonam Chauhan, Jyoti Devdhar, Maryna Futymska, Mukta Choubisa, Pari Sagar, Parvin Fathi, Ranjisha Raghavan, Stefania Pomillo, Tumpa Banerjee, and Wala Mohammed.
The participating students from SNF Development Centre were: Aryan Ghansham Narwani, Dhiren Bhatia, Elbin Alias, Heba Ali Khan, Ijjas Nauphal, Jeevika Singh, Kalpana Vyas, Mansha Advani, Mohamed Avais, Sachio Dsouza, Samiksha Nair, and Salem Salim.
Each pairing of an artist with a student allowed for a unique exchange of perspectives. The students gained insight into professional artistic techniques, while the artists were deeply moved by the enthusiasm and raw creativity of their young counterparts. The synergy between them resulted in artwork that transcended mere aesthetics, encapsulating emotions, personal growth, and the joy of creation.
Farah Khan, Co-founder, and Creative Designer of Funun Arts Group, expressed gratitude to all supporters and partners, stating, “A strong team makes an event successful, and we are thankful for the unwavering support of our community.”
Mehnaz Bari, Manager of SNF Development Center, expressed her gratitude to Funun Arts Group for their tremendous support over the past eight years. Parents of the students were overwhelmed with the smiles and happiness on their children’s faces, witnessing the joy and fulfillment the event brought to them.
One of the parents stated, “This type of event and activity boosts the confidence of our children and gives them happiness which is most precious.”
The event was made even more special by the generosity of various gift partners, who ensured that every participant left with a token of appreciation. The gift partners included:
- Rahmah Fawad – A young entrepreneur who provided handmade goodies
- Dr. Mankush Srivastava – An artist who created customized art bags for students
- Art Splash (Aditi) – Provided aprons for the participants
- Creative Cave (Anum Sultana) – Designed branded key chains as souvenirs
Throughout the evening, the atmosphere at Daftar Restaurant was filled with warmth, joy, and artistic expression. Guests enjoyed a delicious Iftar meal, engaging in meaningful conversations about art, inclusivity, and the significance of initiatives like CHERISH in fostering a more compassionate society.
The event concluded with heartfelt words of appreciation from the organizers, students, and artists alike. It was evident that CHERISH had once again succeeded in its mission of uniting hearts through art. The paintings created during the event stood as symbols of the power of collaboration and the boundless possibilities that arise when people come together for a noble cause. An expansive Iftar was hosted by the team at Daftar Restaurant that included the gastronomical delicacies and impeccable service done by their team.
CHERISH was more than just an event; it was a celebration of art, inclusion, and the true essence of Ramadan—compassion, generosity, and togetherness. The memories created during the evening will continue to inspire everyone involved, serving as a reminder that art can heal, connect, and transform lives.
About Funun Arts Group
Funun Arts Group is a dynamic and inclusive arts community dedicated to promoting and supporting artists in the UAE and beyond. Through exhibitions, workshops, and collaborative events, Funun Arts Group aims to foster a vibrant arts scene and provide a platform for artists to showcase their work. The group is known for its commitment to nurturing both established and emerging artists, creating opportunities for dialogue, collaboration, and creative expression.
About Daftar Restaurant
Daftar is a serene retreat in the heart of Dubai’s DIFC, offering more than just Indian cuisine — it’s a celebration of flavors, stories, and shared moments. Inspired by the Hindi/Urdu word for “office” and the Arabic word for “notebook,” Daftar reflects daily rituals and the joy of gathering over meals. Thoughtfully designed spaces cater to every mood, from private dining and casual seating to an open-air balcony and vibrant bar area. Blending tradition with modern elegance, Daftar brings nostalgic comfort and contemporary charm to Dubai’s bustling corporate hub.
