Festivals at the Bungalow: SWFL Rotary Club’s Inspiring Cultural Triumph in New York City

October 27th, 2025

SWFL Rotary Club Festivals at the Bungalow: A Story That Began with Heart

What started as a simple conversation between Michelin Star Chef Vikas Khanna and Priya Ahluwalia became something far greater – a global symbol of community and compassion. The Festivals at the Bungalow project, proudly sponsored by the Southwest Florida (SWFL) Rotary Club, has now made its mark in New York City.

Earlier this year, the children’s book made history at the NASDAQ Closing Ceremony, becoming the first Rotary-sponsored book ever launched there. The milestone represented more than a publication; it showed the world how a small Rotary Club from Charlotte County could create an international ripple of goodwill.

A Milestone Born in Southwest Florida

The SWFL Rotary Club’s journey began with heart and purpose. In under 45 days, this newly formed club raised $20,000 to fund Festivals at the Bungalow. The project wasn’t just about printing pages – it was about celebrating unity and empathy.

Priya Ahluwalia, Co-Founder of SWFL Rotary, shared that this book represents more than literacy. “What began as a conversation became a movement that celebrates diversity, kindness, and community,” she said. Her words reflect how a shared vision in Southwest Florida grew into a story of global connection.

From Charlotte County to Times Square: A Celebration of Culture and Connection

New York City was the perfect stage for the next chapter. The SWFL Rotary Club partnered with The Culture Tree, a New York–based organization that teaches cultural literacy and language programs centered on South Asia.

Together, they hosted book readings at the New York Public Library and the Asia Society Museum. These events introduced young readers to the book’s colorful world of festivals and the deeper message of inclusion.

Representing Southwest Florida, Priya Ahluwalia and Hailey Herren, President of the SWFL Interact Club, shared the stage and spirit of service. During their visit, they also met Chef Khanna at his acclaimed restaurant, Bungalow, where they discussed the tour and shared plans to expand the message of unity.

Meeting Chef Vikas Khanna: A Shared Dream Realized

For Hailey, a high school student and emerging leader, meeting Chef Khanna was unforgettable. “It opened my eyes to a world of possibilities,” she said. “This trip showed me the power of Rotary – how service, culture, and compassion can truly change lives.”

Chef Khanna, known for his humanitarian work, praised the SWFL Rotary Club for advancing literacy through creativity. He emphasized how Festivals at the Bungalow aligns perfectly with Rotary’s mission of Service Above Self.

The meeting symbolized something powerful – a connection between generations and cultures. It showed how stories can unite hearts across borders.

A Warm Welcome from New York’s Leaders

The New York tour wasn’t just successful – it was inspiring. Priya and Hailey were honored guests at Mayor Eric Adams’ Diwali Celebration, where they presented the book to Deputy Mayor Dilip Chauhan. The gesture reflected how Charlotte County’s message of inclusion is resonating nationally.

They also attended the Desai Foundation’s Annual Diwali Gala, where leaders and changemakers celebrated culture and compassion. Each event highlighted the growing recognition of the SWFL Rotary Club and its ability to represent Southwest Florida’s values with pride.

The Culture Tree Partnership: Where Education Meets Empathy

A key part of the tour’s success came from the collaboration with Anu Sehgal, founder of The Culture Tree. Her organization promotes understanding of South Asian heritage in classrooms and communities across the U.S.

Through this partnership, Festivals at the Bungalow reached new audiences. Students, teachers, and families learned how festivals can bring people together. “Our goal is to strengthen roots while growing minds,” Sehgal said – a sentiment that mirrors Rotary’s own mission of global understanding.

SWFL Interact Club: Youth Leadership in Action

The SWFL Interact Club’s involvement made this story even more special. Interact Clubs, designed for youth ages 12 to 18, develop young leaders through service and collaboration.

Hailey Herren’s leadership on this trip showed what’s possible when young people are empowered to serve. “At SWFL Rotary, we don’t just say we partner with Interact – we live it,” said Ahluwalia. “We give our youth opportunities to lead, to learn, and to see the world.”

Her words capture the heart of Rotary – mentorship, service, and shared experiences that shape the leaders of tomorrow.

Bringing Festivals at the Bungalow Home to Southwest Florida

Soon, the story will come home. The remaining books are being delivered to Southwest Florida, where they’ll support new literacy programs in local schools. Several partner clubs – including those in Anna Maria Island, Fort Myers East, LaBelle, Naples Bay, and Welles Park – will help distribute them.

These programs will inspire children to learn about culture and compassion while building reading skills. They’ll also remind local families that even a small Rotary Club can make a big difference when service meets creativity.

Charlotte County’s Impact Beyond Borders

Charlotte County’s influence continues to reach far beyond Florida. The SWFL Rotary Club’s success shows that leadership isn’t defined by size but by spirit.

Through Festivals at the Bungalow, Charlotte County is proving that communities can champion both education and empathy. Each milestone – from NASDAQ to New York – has strengthened Southwest Florida’s reputation as a region that leads with heart.

A Ripple Effect of Service and Storytelling

Rotary’s motto, Service Above Self, is alive in this project. By connecting storytelling and service, the SWFL Rotary Club created something lasting.

In today’s divided world, Festivals at the Bungalow reminds us that kindness has no boundaries. The book celebrates cultures, festivals, and family – and in doing so, it brings people closer. That’s the true power of storytelling: it builds bridges where walls once stood.

What’s Next for the SWFL Rotary Club?

The journey isn’t over. The club now plans to expand its literacy efforts and form new partnerships with cultural and educational organizations.

As the books arrive across the region, Rotary Clubs will host classroom readings, youth discussions, and service projects inspired by the book’s themes. These activities will continue to teach children that understanding begins with empathy – and empathy begins with stories.

FAQs

What is Festivals at the Bungalow about?
It’s a children’s book by Michelin Star Chef Vikas Khanna that celebrates unity and diversity through festivals and traditions.

Who sponsored the project?
The Southwest Florida Rotary Club proudly sponsored the book, raising $20,000 in less than two months.

Why was the NASDAQ launch historic?
It was the first Rotary-supported book ever launched at NASDAQ, marking a new milestone in literacy and service.

What is The Culture Tree’s role?
The Culture Tree led the New York City book tour, hosting readings at major venues and helping expand the book’s reach.

How will Southwest Florida benefit?
Regional Rotary Clubs will use the book to start new literacy programs and cultural education initiatives in local schools.

Where can I learn more about the SWFL Rotary Club?
Visit swflrotary.org to learn about ongoing projects and upcoming events.

Conclusion: From Southwest Florida to the World

Festivals at the Bungalow is more than a book – it’s a bridge. It connects communities, generations, and hearts. From NASDAQ to New York, every step of this journey reflects the same belief: that kindness, culture, and service can light the world.

For the SWFL Rotary Club, this success is only the beginning. As the story returns home to inspire new readers, its message remains timeless – when we celebrate together, we grow together.