Behind the scenes of Condé Nast Traveller’s London Fashion Week dinner with Godawan 173

On Sunday 22 September, The Savoy’s historic Lancaster Ballroom was taken over by Condé Nast Traveller and the award-winning Indian single malt Godawan for a resplendent dinner to inaugurate its new limited-edition, Godawan 173, which is made in Rajasthan and highlights its unique environment, wildlife, art and craftsmanship. CNT’s global editorial director, Divia Thani, and Diageo’s interim CEO, Nik Jhangiani, hosted the evening – a highlight of which was Bollywood star Sonam Kapoor’s receiving the first bottle and pledging funds towards the conservation of the endangered bird after whom the drink is named (Godawan is also known as the Great Indian Bustard and was once a contender for India’s national bird).

Sonam KapoorMoeez Ali

When doors opened, guests were wowed by the spectacular decor by Blooming Haus and tablescapes by Duchess and Butler. Inspired by Rajasthan’s desert environment, both creatives took this brief to new heights, with breathtaking installations featuring pampas grass, barley and touches of blue delphiniums.

Whisky tastings and presentations were key parts of the eveningMoeez Ali

Guests feasted on a multi-course menu at The SavoyMoeez Ali

Ruchira Jaitly and Diageo India’s MD and CEO, Praveen Someshwar, to the stage (which would soon after be reclaimed by a sitar player strumming out Moon River), who shed light on the story behind Godawan 173, and how their conservation efforts over the past few years have led to the population of the birds to go from under 100 to an impressive 173 – hence, the name of the malt.

Moeez Ali