Travelogue 16 : From Power Dinners to Diwali Evenings — My Journey Through D.C. & New York

Last week took me to Washington D.C. and New York — a short trip, yet one filled with reconnection, inspiration, and warmth.

New York has long been a second home for us — thanks to work, friends, and our children living there. But Washington D.C. has only recently found its way into my heart. Every October, when the World Bank and IMF meetings fill the city with leaders from across the world, there’s a special energy in the air — conversations that shape economies and ideas that influence the future.

For the second year in a row, we at Intellect were proud to be the sole sponsors of the Global Finance Awards, celebrating the world’s best banks. We also hosted our first Annual Banker’s Dinner, with over 30 Central Bank Governors and Bank CEOs joining us. The room was electric — a coming together of people who steer the financial world.

The highlight of the evening was the fireside chat with Harit Talwar. I’ve always admired Harit as a senior and business leader, but hearing him reflect on his journey — from Citi to Morgan Stanley to Marcus — was deeply moving. Harit’s storytelling was magnetic and had everyone in the room spellbound. He reminded me that the true mark of great leaders is not just what they achieve, but how they inspire others to dream bigger .Thank you, Harit, for that unforgettable evening.

I also tried two Indian restaurants — Rasika and The Bombay Club — and I must say, the Indian food in Washington felt far more authentic than what I’ve had in New York! We even stopped by the Off the Record bar at the Hay-Adams Hotel on a Friday evening — and there was barely space to stand. The ambience and energy were simply electric. With the IMF meetings moving to Bangkok next year, I know I’ll miss D.C. in October 2026.

On a more personal note, I had a heartwarming dinner with my niece and her husband — reconnecting after years reminded me how precious family bonds are. Listening to how she balances a demanding career, work travel, and motherhood made me truly appreciate the resilience of working mothers in the U.S. — hats off to you, Lauren Raizada and Jason Burg

Before flying back to Dubai, I also managed a lovely Diwali dinner with my children in New York — a perfect way to end a fulfilling week. Missed Priya Saxena at dinner.

Wishing everyone a joyful Diwali filled with light, love, and gratitude.
Leaving you with a few pictures and moments from this memorable journey. ✨

Every journey reminds me that leadership and life both thrive on meaningful connections — between people, places, and purpose.