Three determined women...one purpose...countless beneficiaries.... The stage was set for A Fair Of The Heart.... On a grey monsoon morning, when actor, Shabana Azmi, lit the lamp for the exhibition organised by Zeba Kohli, director, Fantasie Chocolates; Geetu Hinduja, art consultant and director, The Fine Art Company and Bina Aziz, artist and promoter, many friends and well-wishers trooped in to see the colourful items on display. In a way, the presence of the mix of people was expected. For it was an effort to boost several NGOs in their ongoing support of their needy wards and protegés.

The three women - each individually defined by their distinct personalities - have always been moved by the plight of the needy and underprivileged. Bina admits to being touched by Kahlil Gibran's saying, "It is in exchanging the gifts of the earth that you shall find abundance and be satisfied". Two years ago she had organised an Indo-Pak fusion concert for her NGO, Maddad - the proceeds had gone to the tsunami-affected. She wants to do more for "working women with children who need a helping hand."

Geetu, who had earlier helped Mobile Crèches host an exhibition of paintings made by the children of the migrant construction workers, displays a hands-on sensitivity to the needs of the volunteers manning the stalls.... Having worked with several NGOs in the past, she continues to do "my little bit as and where I can. Whatever you do cannot really be enough.... We can always do much more."

It is left to Zeba to zoom in on their growing vision. "I have been inspired to do social service ever since I can remember - probably from the time I became an adult," she says. "My parents and grandparents imbibed in me the driving desire to do something that would make our society a better place to live in." Inspired by all things Indian, Zeba underlines their attempt to help the promoters of native crafts and arts. "They are all so colourful and just need that little support to retain their identity," she says.

Their endeavour has not gone unnoticed...and I am not referring to the 'Page 3' presence or paparazzi coverage. Drawn by the growing word by mouth appreciation of the trio's effort, more NGOs have already approached them for inclusion in their effort - and that is the real evidence of their purpose - and Zeba points out that the trio looks forward to a greater participation in next year's edition. Heart-warming, indeed!