The Ambani-Merchant wedding, a high-profile event estimated to cost $600 million, has captured global attention with its lavish celebrations. The initial festivities took place in Mumbai, featuring a blend of opulence and star power.
Among the guests were celebrities like Kim Kardashian and Justin Bieber, as well as former leaders such as Tony Blair. The celebrations, which spanned three days, included performances by Rihanna and a European cruise with entertainers like the Backstreet Boys and Katy Perry.
The wedding will now extend to the UK for a two-month after-party at Stoke Park Country Club near Slough. This historic venue, purchased by the Ambani family for £57 million in 2021, has been booked exclusively for renovations and the upcoming celebrations.
The move has sparked controversy, as it conflicts with the club’s leasehold terms, which stipulate the property must remain a commercial entity rather than being used privately.
Ambani-Merchant Wedding $600 Million Celebration Extends to UK with Royal Guests and Controversies
Prince Harry, Meghan Markle, and Boris Johnson are rumored to be among the guests for the UK leg of the celebrations. This has added to the event’s high profile, which has faced criticism from local residents who have been advised to avoid the area due to the hotel’s exclusive booking. The Ambani family’s clash with the local council over leasehold compliance further complicates the situation.
In Mumbai, the wedding featured traditional ceremonies including a Hindu marriage and a reception known as ‘Mangal Utsav.’ The venue, Jio World Convention Centre, was transformed into a miniature version of Varanasi for the celebrations. The bride arrived on an electric wooden boat and wore an elaborate red and white ensemble. The event also featured live performances and a lively baraat procession for the groom.
Guests, including Mark Zuckerberg, Bill Gates, and Khloe Kardashian, were documented at the wedding, showcasing their high-fashion outfits and participation in the festivities. Despite some fashion missteps, like Kim Kardashian’s red lehenga, the couple remained the focal point of the event. The wedding’s grandeur was accentuated by the inclusion of high-profile entertainers and a meticulously designed venue.
Anant Ambani, the groom, is the youngest son of Mukesh Ambani, Asia’s richest man, who has begun transitioning his business empire to his children. Anant, aged 29, is involved in the family’s renewable energy ventures, while his bride, Radhika Merchant, also 29, manages marketing for her family’s pharmaceutical company. Their union has been celebrated with grandiosity fitting their status and resources.
