Boston — The Desai Foundation announced that acclaimed comedian Rajiv Satyal will serve as the host for Lotus Festival 2025, bringing his signature wit, warmth, and global perspective to the annual gala on September 13 at the Omni Seaport Hotel in Boston.
Satyal will also treat donors to an exclusive 10-minute comedy set, promising a night that blends purpose with laughter.
Satyal, a Los Angeles-based comedian known for his clean, clever humor and global reach, is no stranger to the spotlight. He’s the only person to perform stand-up on all seven continents, and has opened for comedy legends including Dave Chappelle, Jo Koy, Tim Allen, and Russell Peters. His performance resume also includes a set in front of 17,000 people as the opener for Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
His viral video, I AM INDIAN, has garnered over 100 million views, establishing him as a cultural voice with universal appeal. Satyal’s work has been featured by Netflix, NPR, The New York Times, and The Wall Street Journal, among others. A former Procter & Gamble marketer turned full-time entertainer and entrepreneur, he now travels the world blending comedy with culture, social commentary, and inspiration.
His role as host of Lotus Festival 2025 aligns seamlessly with the spirit of the evening—a celebration of dignity, health, and opportunity for women and children in rural India. Satyal’s presence will not only bring levity to the evening but will also spotlight the power of storytelling and humor in creating empathy and community.
“Rajiv is hillarious. I have known him for many years, and he has always had me in stiches. He is both fresh and traditional all at the same time,” said Megha Desai, President of The Desai Foundation. “I am so excited for our community in Boston to have a chance to see his joy and humor! His comedy is smart, heartfelt, and universally human—just like the work we aim to celebrate at the Desai Foundation.”
This year’s Lotus Festival will also feature a keynote address by Neela Montgomery, former President of CVS Pharmacy, and a live performance by the internationally acclaimed Berklee India Exchange (BIX). With a lineup of changemakers, artists, philanthropists, and entrepreneurs, the evening is poised to be one of celebration and impact.
From laughter to leadership, Lotus Festival 2025 will be a night where purpose meets performance—and where every moment reminds us that change can start with a smile.
