Ambani’s Son’s Extravagant Mumbai Wedding Draws Mixed Reactions
Anant Ambani, the youngest son of Mukesh Ambani, Asia’s richest man, is marrying Radhika Merchant, daughter of pharmaceutical magnates Viren and Shaila Merchant, in a grand ceremony in Mumbai after months of lavish festivities.
The wedding is the culmination of a series of luxurious events dating back to March, featuring performances by global stars like Rihanna and Justin Bieber. Notable international guests include Kim Kardashian, former UK Prime Ministers Tony Blair and Boris Johnson, and wrestler John Cena, who was seen celebrating with the family.
The four-day wedding celebration is causing road closures in Mumbai, aggravating traffic issues already strained by monsoon flooding.
Social media is buzzing with updates, showcasing Bollywood celebrities and other high-profile attendees. However, the opulence has sparked criticism, with some locals complaining about the disruption and others questioning the display of wealth.
Mukesh Ambani, worth $115 billion, has not disclosed the wedding’s cost, but planners estimate expenses between $132 million and $156 million.
A Reliance executive described the event as a symbol of India’s global prominence, while opposition politician Thomas Isaac condemned the extravagance as inappropriate.
The wedding, held at an Ambani-owned convention center, began with a traditional baraat procession, followed by rituals and performances.
The final ceremony involves the couple walking around a sacred fire. Celebrations include appearances by rumored performers like Drake and Adele.
VIPs such as former Indian President Ram Nath Kovind and the British High Commissioner to India are also attending.
The Ambani family has arranged private jets to transport guests. Pictures of Kim Kardashian and her sister Khloé in Mumbai have gone viral.
The festivities started in March with a pre-wedding party in Gujarat, attended by tech giants Mark Zuckerberg and Bill Gates, featuring a performance by Rihanna.
Another pre-wedding event in June included a Mediterranean cruise with performances by the Backstreet Boys and Katy Perry.
The Ambanis also built 14 temples in Jamnagar and hosted a mass wedding for 50 underprivileged couples as part of the celebrations, concluding with a community feast for the less fortunate.
(Adapted from BBC)
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cq5x22w0xl0o