In a lavish display of wealth and influence, the youngest son of Mukesh Ambani, Asia's richest man, married his longtime girlfriend in a highly anticipated ceremony that has captured global attention.
The wedding festivities, held at the Ambani-owned Jio World Convention Centre in Mumbai, kicked off with traditional Hindu rituals on Friday and culminated in a grand celebration that lasted into the early hours of Saturday.
The star-studded event was attended by a host of international celebrities, business magnates, and political figures, including former British Prime Ministers, pop stars like Rihanna and Justin Bieber, and renowned personalities from various industries.
Guests were treated to a spectacle of performances, traditional ceremonies, and opulent displays of fashion, with attendees donning elaborate Indian attire designed by top fashion houses.
The extravagant affair, spanning four days, has drawn criticism for its ostentatious nature and the stark wealth disparity it highlights in a country grappling with rising inequality.
Mukesh Ambani, the patriarch of the Ambani family and one of the world's wealthiest individuals, presided over the celebrations, showcasing the family's vast fortune and business empire that spans multiple industries.
The groom, Anant Ambani, who oversees the conglomerate's green energy initiatives, and the bride, Radhika Merchant, a marketing director in the pharmaceutical sector, exchanged vows in a ceremony that symbolized the union of two prominent families.
The Ambani family's pre-wedding festivities, marked by extravagant parties and performances by international stars, have become a hallmark of their celebrations, drawing attention and scrutiny in equal measure.
Despite the grandeur of the event, some locals have voiced concerns over the disruption caused by the influx of guests and the spectacle of wealth in a city grappling with everyday challenges.
As the celebrations continue with a grand reception and further festivities, the Ambani wedding stands as a testament to the intersection of wealth, power, and influence in modern society.
