Family (L to R) Mr Akash Ambani, Mrs Shloka Ambani, Mr Anant Ambani, Mrs Radhika Ambani, Mr Mukesh Ambani, Mrs Nita Ambani, Mr Anand Piramal, Mrs Isha Ambani
One year ago, a wedding in India became far more than a family affair—it transformed into a cultural landmark, capturing the world’s imagination. The union of Radhika Merchant and Anant Ambani in 2024 wasn’t merely a glittering social gathering but a vibrant showcase of India’s living traditions, streamed across continents and viewed by millions who witnessed a perfect blend of heritage and modernity.
The Eternal Sanctity of Hindu Marriage
In Indian culture, marriage stands as a sacred bond rooted in spiritual duty, not just societal norms. It is a timeless commitment where two souls, two families, and communities unite in a journey guided by dharma (righteous duty) and mutual growth.
In today’s fast-paced world, many ceremonies abbreviate or simplify these rituals. Yet, the Ambani-Merchant wedding honored every ancient rite with profound sincerity. Their decision reflected a desire to begin their life journey grounded in timeless wisdom and blessings from revered elders and spiritual leaders. The wedding radiated this message across the globe, where global audiences—many unfamiliar with these traditions—watched in awe.
Projecting India’s Cultural Confidence
At a time when India is stepping into a new era of influence—leading in technology, commerce, and diplomacy—this wedding highlighted another vital facet: India’s soul. The magnificence of the rituals, the meticulous planning, and the warmth of hospitality all reinforced India’s image as the spiritual and cultural beacon of the world.
The impressive guest list reflected India’s rising global stature, welcoming heads of state, business tycoons, and cultural icons. Through this celebration, the Ambani family demonstrated how modern India skillfully balances its spiritual heritage with its global aspirations, fostering partnerships and friendships across continents.
A Global Gathering of Spiritual and Political Minds
Dharmagurus attending the festivities included:
- Swami Sadananda Saraswati, Shankaracharya, Dwarka
- Swami Avimukteshwarand Saraswati, Shankaracharya, Joshimath
- Gaurang Das Prabhu, Divisional Director, ISKCON
- Gaur Gopal Das, Monk, ISKCON
- Radhanath Swami, Member, Governing Body, ISKCON
- Pujyashri Rameshbhai Oza
- Gautambhai Oza
- Pujyashri Devaprasad Maharaj
- Vijuben Rajani, Shree Anandabawa Seva Sanstha
- Shri Balak Yogeshwardas Ji Maharaj, Badrinath Dham
- Pujyashri Chidanand Saraswati, Head, Parmarth Niketan Ashram
- Shree Namramuni Maharaj, Jain Muni, Founder-Prasadham
- Dhirendra Kumar Garg, Guru, Bageshwar Dham
- Baba Ramdev, Yoga Guru
- Swami Rambhadracharya
- Swami Kailashanand, Mahamandaleshwar, Niranjani Akhara
- Avdeshanand Giri, Mahamandaleshwar, Juna Akhara
- Shri Devkinandan Thakurji Maharaj, Vishwa Shanti Sewa Trust
- Didi Maa Sadhvi Ritambhara Ji, Vatsalya Gram
- Swami Parmatmnaad ji, Founder, Param Shakti Peeth
- Shri Vishal Rakesh ji Goswami, Head Priest, Shrinathji Temple
In addition to numerous Indian politicians and ministers, the celebrations were graced by political luminaries from across the world, further highlighting India’s growing international appeal. These included:
- John Kerry (American politician)
- Tony Blair (Former Prime Minister, UK)
- Boris Johnson (Former Prime Minister, UK)
- Matteo Renzi (Former Prime Minister of Italy)
- Sebastian Kurz (Former Prime Minister of Austria)
- Stephen Harper, Former Prime Minister of Canada
- Carl Bildt (Former Prime Minister of Sweden)
- Mohamed Nasheed (Former President of Maldives)
- H. E. Samia Suluhu Hassan (President, Tanzania)
A vast number of global business leaders also traveled to India for the wedding rituals, including:
- Amin Nasser (President & CEO, Aramco)
- H. E. Khaldoon Al Mubarak, CEO, Managing Director, Mubadala
- Murray Auchincloss (CEO, bp)
- Robert Dudley (Former CEO – bp, Board Member – Aramco)
- Mark Tucker (Group Chairman, HSBC Holdings Plc)
- Bernard Looney (Former CEO, bp)
- Shantanu Narayen (CEO, Adobe)
- Michael Grimes (Managing Director, Morgan Stanley)
- Igor Sechin, CEO, Rosneft
- Jay Lee, Executive Chairman, Samsung Electronics
- Dilhan Pillay (CEO, Temasek Holdings)
- Emma Walmsley (CEO, GlaxoSmithKline)
- David Constable (CEO, Fluor Corporation)
- Jim Teague (CEO, Enterprise GP)
- Gianni Infantino (IOC Member, President of FIFA)
- Juan Antonio Samaranch (Vice President, IOC)
- Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala (Director-General, WTO)
- Kim Kardashian, Media personality, Socialite
- Khloe Kardashian, Media personality, Socialite
- Dinesh Paliwal (Partner, KKR)
- Lim Chow Kiat, CEO, GIC
- Michael Klein, Managing Partner, M. Klein & Company
- Bader Mohammad Al-Saad (Director, KIA)
- Yoshihiro Hyakutome, Senior Managing Executive Officer, SMBC
- Khalil Mohammed Sharif Foulathi, Vice Chairman, ADIA
- Peter Diamandis, Executive Chairman, Singularity University
- Jay Shetty (Podcaster, Author, Coach)
- Jeff Koons (Artist)
- January Makamba (Foreign Affairs & East African Cooperation)
- James Taiclet (CEO, Lockheed Martin)
- Eric Cantor (Vice Chairman, Moelis & Company)
- Enrique Lores (President & CEO, HP Inc.)
- Borje Ekholm (President & CEO, Ericsson)
- William Lin (Executive Vice President, bp)
- Tommi Uitto, President, Nokia Mobile Networks
Mrs & Mr Anant Ambani
Humanitarian Heart at the Core of Celebration
Staying true to the philosophy of “Manav Seva hi Madhav Seva” (Serving humanity is serving God), the Ambani family initiated the festivities by hosting a Samuhik Vivah—a mass wedding for 50 less privileged couples. This gesture, held at Reliance Corporate Park, Navi Mumbai, blended joy with social responsibility.
In addition, a community kitchen operated for three continuous weeks, feeding thousands daily, reflecting the family’s commitment to sharing prosperity and joy far beyond the opulent wedding halls.
Reviving Rituals in Contemporary Times
The wedding week unfolded through a series of heartfelt ceremonies steeped in meaning:
- Mosalu & Mameru: A celebration of maternal blessings and familial love through the gifting of traditional presents.
- Valley of Gods: A devotional dance performance led by Nita Ambani, merging spiritual storytelling with artistic expression.
- Sangeet: A vibrant evening where the family took center stage in song and dance, celebrating joy and unity.
- Grah Shanti & Randal Maa Pooja: Sacred rituals invoking divine blessings and cosmic harmony for the couple’s life ahead.
- Haldi Ceremony: A playful, yet spiritually symbolic ritual, bringing family and friends together.
- Bhajans & Shiv Shakti Puja: Meditative chants and prayers celebrating the balance of masculine and feminine energies.
- The Sacred Wedding: The culmination of days of devotion, as the couple exchanged vows in the presence of the sacred fire and under the gaze of spiritual elders.
- Inclusive Receptions: Over several days, receptions were hosted not only for elite guests but also for household staff, security, and service teams—affirming gratitude for those who make such moments possible.
A Banaras-Inspired Experience and India’s Fashion Renaissance
The wedding décor, titled “An Ode to Banaras,” transformed the venue into a spiritual journey through the ghats of Kashi. From artisanal crafts and flavors to temple architecture, guests were immersed in the timeless soul of India’s holiest city.
The dress code, “Resplendently Indian,” encouraged guests to embrace India’s rich textile heritage. Dignitaries adorned themselves in handwoven silks, intricate embroideries, and vibrant hues, showcasing India’s fashion artisans to the world. It was a celebration not only of the couple but of India’s design legacy.
A Moment That Redefined India’s Global Identity
The wedding of Radhika Merchant and Anant Ambani was not simply about two individuals starting a life together. It was a modern-day cultural movement—a visual and spiritual narrative of an India that treasures its ancient roots while confidently leading in the modern world.
In this grand confluence of spirituality and statecraft, of rituals and relationships, India reasserted its soft power—proving that in a world racing towards the future, traditions still hold the power to inspire, connect, and lead.
