What is the Independence Day Daawat?
Good food for a good cause- that’s the idea behind The Independence Day Daawat, our annual fundraiser held every 15th August since 2015. The Daawat is a celebration of India’s incredible culinary heritage, brought to life through a hearty, regional meal served on traditional banana leaves in a vibrant, community-style setting.
More than just a feast, it’s a reminder of the freedom we celebrate, because guests are invited to pay as they like for their meal, and 100% of the proceeds go towards a meaningful cause each year. Over the years, this humble lunch has become a Bombay tradition: a chance for the city to come together over food, generosity, and purpose.
Good Food For A Good Cause
Since 2015, the Daawat has supported causes close to our hearts, from Teach for India and the Miracle Foundation to helping Indian farmers through the Naandi Foundation. In 2023, with support from the Robin Hood Army and your generous contributions, we helped provide ration kits to 1,700 rural families.
Last year, we took a big step in our mission to Make Bombay Green Again by transforming Captain Namdev Lotankar Park, Mahalaxmi, into a lush, thriving urban green pocket and helped build The Nest in Malabar Hills, in collaboration with Nature:re, an RPG Foundation initiative.
Mission 2025
This year, for the Canteen’s 11th Independence Day Daawat, we’re continuing our mission to Make Bombay Green Again and nurturing more green spaces across the city to make Bombay a better place to live in. In continued partnership with Nature:re, an RPG Foundation initiative, we’ll plant native trees, restore biodiversity, and work to create green corridors that connect urban Bombay to Sanjay Gandhi National Park, one pocket at a time.
Urban green corridors are critical for enhancing biodiversity, improving air quality, and providing habitats for native species. Mumbai, with its dense urban landscape, is in dire need of such green spaces to combat pollution and support ecological health. Studies have shown that urban green spaces can reduce city temperatures, improve mental health, and increase urban biodiversity.
Join us this Independence Day for a meal that nourishes more than just your appetite. Let’s continue to Make Bombay Green Again, together!
Before & After
The Nest, Malabar Hill, Mumbai
The Green Corridor
The Green Corridor
The Green Corridor
The Green Corridor
Our Partners
All proceeds from the Independence Day Daawat were used to support RPG Foundation’s efforts in building the green corridor of Mumbai starting with Captain Namdev Lotankar Park.
RPG Foundation is carving a path for India’s future by channeling investments into youth, women, environment, and culture. Functioning as a social incubator, RPG Foundation actively fosters the growth of innovative ideas, providing the support needed for successful implementation.