Asian News Blog

Shilpa Shetty will be joining the ranks of other international celebrities and Hollywood A-listers including event host, Matt Damon, onstage at the third annual ONE X ONE Benefit Gala, when she presents Richard Gere with the prestigious ONE X ONE Difference Award on 9th September at the Four Seasons Centre, Toronto.

Exceptional people that have made a difference to the lives of others are honoured each year at the ONE X ONE Benefit Gala – one of the most significant diary events of the long established Toronto Film Festival - and this year sees Hollywood veteran Richard Gere, being honoured by none other than Bollywood peer and dear friend, Shilpa Shetty. The awards are presented in recognition of individuals who have dedicated their lives to fighting child poverty and suffering around the world.

Herself a committed charity benefactor and campaigner for global issues such as HIV/AIDS awareness and the prevention of cruelty to animals, Shilpa Shetty is honoured to be presenting the award. She tells, “I am honoured to have been invited by an organisation whose ongoing work with children suffering around the world I have so much admiration for, to present the award to Richard – a close friend and someone for whom I have the utmost respect for his selfless commitment to helping others.”

One of the key events to take place during the Toronto Film Festival, the ONE X ONE Foundation fundraising gala will also be honouring personalities such as musician Wyclef Jean, The Duchess of York Sarah Ferguson and international supermodel and philanthropist Petra Nemcova.

As well as the esteemed awards ceremony and an array of high-profile celebrity appearances, the evening will comprise music by artists such as Shakira and Wyclef Jean, recitals and a celebration of the accomplishments of those that have made a significant difference in the world, towards helping those that are less fortunate.

The One X One Benefit Gala has previously been attended by stars such as Brad Pitt, Penelope Cruz, Bono, John Legend and Kate Hudson, to raise money and awareness for children that are suffering around the world, with key children’s charities supported each year.

Pictured above: Shilpa with Richard Gere in India. Gere grabbed hold of Shilpa and kissed her. This caused controversy all over India.