After months of anticipation, Anant Ambani, son of India’s wealthiest man, tied the knot with pharmaceutical heiress Radhika Merchant.
This grand event, held on Friday, was attended by a host of A-list celebrities, including Kim and Khloe Kardashian, John Cena, and former British Prime Minister Tony Blair, making it arguably India’s most significant wedding of the year.
The bride, Radhika, looked resplendent in a cream and red lengha adorned with jewels and a beaded headscarf.
Anant, the beaming groom, complemented her beautifully in a red beaded jacket, known as a nehru, paired with crisp white trousers and trainers featuring an extravagant gold logo.
Their traditional Hindu ceremony took place at the JIO World Convention Centre in Mumbai.
The celebrations saw a glamorous turnout from the Ambani family, including Mukesh Ambani, Nita Ambani, and their other children.
Bollywood stars and international celebrities like Priyanka Chopra and Joe Jonas added to the glamour.
Kim Kardashian dazzled in a ruby red outfit, while Khloe Kardashian opted for a beaded cream and gold ensemble.
John Cena stood out in a sky blue jacket with a grey floral pattern, and FIFA president Gianni Infantino attended with his wife, Leena Al Ashqar.
Lavish Pre-Wedding Festivities
The pre-wedding festivities were equally extravagant.
Kim and Khloe Kardashian were seen enjoying Mumbai in bridal white and nude dresses.
Priyanka Chopra and Nick Jonas also arrived, bringing their playful energy.
These events set the stage for what was to come, with workers transforming the JIO World Convention Centre into a lavish venue complete with lush decor and tight security.
Gifts and Opulence
The Ambani-Merchant wedding is estimated to have cost a staggering £500 million, with the couple receiving over £100 million in gifts.
These included a £62 million villa in Dubai, a £500,000 Bentley, custom-made jewelry, and luxurious sarees.
Guests, too, were treated lavishly, with private jets and five-star accommodations provided for their stay.
The Ceremony and Celebrations
The traditional Hindu wedding ceremony included a ‘baraat’ procession, sacred fire rituals, and ancient Sanskrit verses.
With around 5,000 attendees, the festivities spanned three days and featured a divine blessings ceremony and a glitzy reception.
Celebrities like Justin Bieber and possibly Adele or Drake were slated to perform.
Anant Ambani: The Man Behind the Celebration
Anant Ambani, born in 1995, is the youngest son of Mukesh Ambani and a key figure in Reliance Industries.
He serves on the boards of several Reliance companies and has been involved in major sporting events like the Indian Premier League.
He owns significant assets, including the renowned Antilia residence and shares in the Mumbai Indians IPL team.
The Future for Anant and Radhika
Following their wedding, Anant and Radhika will reside with the groom’s family, as per Indian tradition.
Radhika, the daughter of pharmaceutical tycoon Viren Merchant, works for her father’s company, while Anant continues his roles within Reliance Industries.
Their union marks the beginning of a new chapter in the Ambani family’s illustrious legacy.