Pink was the preferred hue at Rekha Mallya's super exclusive birthday bash in San Francisco. The plush Mallya residence, awash with pink peonies, merry bonhomie, live piano concertos and a floaty, transparent tent in shades of pink, set the tone for an evening of hearty toasts from husband, a stirring slide show from children and nostalgic renderings from close friends, some of whom had airdashed to the venue from the far corners of the world. 'The Power of Now', the official theme of the party, saw the reclusive birthday girl - outfitted in understated Donna Karan - cutting a Paris-baked Pucci-inspired cake as a specially created drink, Reyka Vodka' and custom-made, Rekha-embossed chocolates made the rounds. And when a pair of professional salsa dancers hit the floor, the shy belle of the ball, took everyone (and probably herself) by surprise with her own flamboyant twirl to the beat of I Will Survive. Anything missing? No sign of gifts or goodies piled high on antique tables. For, to honour their hostess's request, the guests, instead of going overboard on presents, donated generously to a charity she supports. Overheard: "This party just swept my jet lag away!"

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