On Wednesday 20th November 2024, the Grim’s Dyke hosted a wonderful 85th birthday celebration for Professor Nat Puri. Nat is the distinguished entrepreneur, philanthropist and founder of Purico Group. Bringing together Professor Puri’s family and friends, the evening was a chance to celebrate while honouring his remarkable achievements and philanthropy.

The Evening

Guests enjoyed drinks and canapés, when they arrived, in The Drawing Room and Library Bar. This was followed by a fantastic three course menu prepared by Head Chef Daren Mason and Patisserie Chef William Girouard.

The starter was wild mushroom & ricotta cannelloni with brown butter and nutmeg. The main included a choice of slow braised lamb shank, red wine and thyme jus with dauphinoise potatoes or vegetable wellington, lemon butter sauce and creamed potato. The delicious dessert, which was created by Chef William, was a whisky and chocolate crémeux.

Nat’s friends spoke of their fondness of him and guests were treated to a Hotel Chocolat gift bag as a thank you. The evening ended with the presentation of Nat’s cake, music and a wonderful firework display to mark the occasion. Watch a video of the evening here.

The Puri Foundation

Professor Nat Puri’s charitable endeavours have had a significant impact on both education, healthcare, and community development in the UK and India. Notable aspects of his philanthropy include:

• Establishment of The Puri Foundation: In July 1988, Professor Nat Puri founded The Puri Foundation with a personal donation of £1 million. This was matched by his company, Purico Group. The foundation has since distributed millions to support causes in both Nottingham, where Nat lives, and his home country, India.
• Focus on Education: The foundation emphasises advancing education and provides financial assistance to those in need and helps support recreational facilities. Especially for young people.
• Aid for Disaster Relief: Following the 2001 Gujarat earthquake, The Puri Foundation donated £1 million towards reconstructing 10 villages, providing much-needed humanitarian aid.
• Promotion of Literacy in Nepal: Through The Three R’s Education Trust, the foundation funded 1,000 single-teacher schools in remote areas of Nepal. This benefits around 45,000 pupils and addressed illiteracy.
• Development in Mullanpur, India: The foundation has built around 50 houses and a new school for 1,000 pupils in Mullanpur, Nat’s hometown. This has enhanced educational infrastructure.
• Support for Local Schools in Nottingham: Grants have been provided to numerous schools in Nottingham. This has helped to purchase computers and improve facilities, demonstrating a commitment to local education.
• Scholarships for Overseas Students: The foundation has funded scholarships for international students at Nottingham’s universities and London South Bank University.

Further Charitable Work

• Support for Engineering Education: In 2011, Professor Puri donated £1 million to London South Bank University to establish The Nathu Puri Institute for Engineering and Enterprise. Its aim: to integrate enterprise into engineering education and practice.
• Contributions to the University of Nottingham: Professor Puri has made significant donations to the University of Nottingham. This includes a £100,000 gift in 2024 to support cardiac and neonatal research, areas of personal interest to Nat.
• Community Infrastructure Projects: Professor Puri donated £47,000 to improve access and safety at Breck Hill Park in Woodthorpe. Nat’s donation funded a new entrance and path for the whole community to enjoy.
• Dedication to philanthropy: In recognition of his work, Professor Puri was honoured, this year, with the Pride of Gedling Award. The award honours his contributions to education, youth initiatives, local infrastructure and acknowledged his extensive charitable work.

All in all, it was a wonderful evening to celebrate a truly remarkable man. A man who is making a lasting difference to the lives of many. If you’d like to find out more about Prof Nat Puri’s work and The Puri Foundation, please visit https://www.purico.co.uk/

Photography and videography by Roshni Photography