Everything to Know About the Ambani Wedding

The wedding of Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant in July 2024 was a spectacle of unprecedented grandeur, blending traditional Indian rituals with global opulence. Spanning several months and continents, the celebrations culminated in a three-day extravaganza in Mumbai, attended by a constellation of international celebrities, dignitaries, and business magnates. With an estimated cost ranging from $600 million to $1 billion, this event not only showcased the Ambani family’s immense wealth but also sparked discussions on extravagance and social responsibility.

The Couple: Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant

Anant Ambani: The Heir to Reliance Industries

Anant Ambani, born on April 10, 1995, is the youngest son of Mukesh Ambani, chairman of Reliance Industries, and Nita Ambani. A graduate of Brown University, Anant holds significant positions within the Reliance conglomerate, including roles in Jio Platforms and the Reliance Foundation. Beyond his corporate responsibilities, he is known for his philanthropic endeavors, particularly in animal welfare, exemplified by the establishment of the Vantara animal rescue center in Jamnagar.

Radhika Merchant: The Accomplished Bride

Radhika Merchant, born on December 18, 1994, is the daughter of Viren Merchant, CEO of Encore Healthcare, and Shaila Merchant. An alumna of New York University with a degree in political science, Radhika serves as a director at Encore Healthcare. A classically trained dancer, she has performed at various cultural events, including the Ambani family’s functions.

The Courtship and Engagement

Anant and Radhika’s relationship began in 2017, introduced by mutual friends. Their bond strengthened over shared values and mutual support, particularly during Anant’s health challenges. The couple’s commitment was formalized with a traditional Roka ceremony in December 2022 at the Shrinathji Temple in Nathdwara, Rajasthan. This was followed by a Gol Dhana ceremony in January 2023, marking Radhika’s formal welcome into the Ambani family.

Pre-Wedding Celebrations: A Global Affair

Jamnagar Extravaganza

In March 2024, the Ambani family hosted a three-day pre-wedding celebration in Jamnagar, Gujarat. The event featured performances by international artists, including Rihanna, who delivered her first full-length concert in eight years. Guests were treated to a “jungle fever” themed event at Vantara, emphasizing the couple’s commitment to animal welfare.

Mediterranean Cruise

In May 2024, approximately 1,200 guests embarked on a luxurious Mediterranean cruise, with stops in Italy and France. Highlights included a masquerade ball in Cannes with a surprise performance by Katy Perry and a concert by Andrea Bocelli in Portofino. The cruise epitomized the fusion of cultural elegance and modern luxury.

Philanthropic Initiatives

Demonstrating social responsibility, the Ambani family organized a mass wedding for over 50 underprivileged couples in early July 2024. Additionally, they hosted community meals for 51,000 people, reinforcing their commitment to societal welfare amidst the opulence.

The Wedding: A Three-Day Spectacle

Day 1: Shubh Vivah (July 12, 2024)

The wedding ceremonies commenced at the Jio World Convention Centre in Mumbai. Traditional rituals, including the Baraat procession, Safa Tying, Milni, Varmala, and Lagna Vidhi, were performed with grandeur. The venue was adorned with floral installations, including 60 animal sculptures crafted from millions of flowers by renowned designer Preston Bailey.

Day 2: Shubh Aashirwad (July 13, 2024)

The second day focused on receiving blessings from elders and deities. The couple participated in various religious ceremonies, seeking divine guidance for their marital journey. The day emphasized spiritual sanctity amidst the celebrations.

Day 3: Mangal Utsav (July 14, 2024)

The final day featured a grand reception, Mangal Utsav, symbolizing the couple’s new beginning. Attendees included global celebrities, political figures, and business leaders. The event showcased a blend of traditional Indian hospitality and contemporary entertainment.

Guest List: A Confluence of Global Luminaries

The wedding was attended by a plethora of high-profile individuals:

• Political Figures: Former UK Prime Ministers Tony Blair and Boris Johnson, former U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry, and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
• Business Magnates: Bill Gates, Mark Zuckerberg, and Ivanka Trump.
• Entertainment Icons: Kim and Khloe Kardashian, Priyanka Chopra Jonas, Nick Jonas, John Cena, Adele, and David Beckham.
• Bollywood Stars: Shah Rukh Khan, Deepika Padukone, Alia Bhatt, Ranveer Singh, and Salman Khan.

Fashion and Culinary Delights

Dress Code and Attire

Guests received an extensive dress code guideline, detailing attire for each event. Themes ranged from “Evening in Everland” to “Jungle Fever,” requiring multiple outfit changes. Radhika’s ensembles included custom creations by designers like Manish Malhotra and Versace. Kim Kardashian notably faced criticism for wearing red, traditionally reserved for Indian brides.

Culinary Experience

The wedding featured an extensive culinary spread, with over 500 chefs preparing hundreds of dishes. The menu catered to diverse palates, offering global cuisines and traditional Indian delicacies. The emphasis on gastronomy underscored the family’s commitment to hospitality.

Public Reaction and Criticism

While the wedding was lauded for its grandeur, it also attracted criticism for its extravagance in a country grappling with economic disparities. Some political figures labeled the event as ostentatious, highlighting the stark contrast between the opulence and the socioeconomic challenges faced by many Indians. However, supporters argued that the family’s philanthropic initiatives demonstrated a balance between celebration and social responsibility.

Conclusion

The wedding of Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant stands as a testament to the fusion of tradition and modernity, wealth and responsibility. While it showcased the pinnacle of luxury, it also sparked essential conversations about societal values and economic disparities. As a cultural milestone, the event will be remembered for its grandeur, its guests, and the dialogues it inspired.