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Time Business News
12-07-2025
- Business
- Time Business News
India on the World Stage: How the Ambani Wedding Embodied Bharat's Rising Influence
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 A year has passed since the wedding of Radhika Merchant and Anant Ambani, an event that not only captured India's attention but resonated across the world. Their 2024 wedding was much more than a family celebration—it became a cultural phenomenon, uniting millions across continents as they witnessed the grandeur and spiritual depth of Indian traditions broadcast across mainstream and digital media. Hindu marriage is revered as a divine covenant—binding not only two individuals but entire families and communities in a sacred, lifelong partnership. Far beyond a legal arrangement, it is an act of dharma, an offering of responsibility toward personal, familial, and cosmic balance. While modern lifestyles often abbreviate traditional ceremonies, Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant consciously chose to follow every sacred rite with sincerity and reverence. Guided by the wisdom of elders and spiritual leaders, they began their life together rooted in the profound customs of their ancestors. Their commitment to preserving tradition resonated far and wide, inspiring audiences around the world. At a time when India is expanding its global influence in finance, technology, and diplomacy, this spiritually enriched ceremony further projected India's image as a land of timeless culture and wisdom. The guest list reflected India's growing prominence—drawing statesmen, business leaders, and cultural icons from around the world. This celebration became a showcase of India's ability to blend ancient tradition with modern leadership, affirming its place as a beacon of global soft power. Reliance Industries and the Ambani family's meticulous efforts to host such a global confluence underscored their dedication to forging meaningful international ties and nurturing India's image as a global leader. Dharmagurus attending the festivities included: Swami Sadananda Saraswati , Shankaracharya, Dwarka , Shankaracharya, Dwarka Swami Avimukteshwarand Saraswati , Shankaracharya, Joshimath , Shankaracharya, Joshimath Gaurang Das Prabhu , Divisional Director, ISKCON , Divisional Director, ISKCON Gaur Gopal Das , Monk, ISKCON , Monk, ISKCON Radhanath Swami , Member, Governing Body, ISKCON , Member, Governing Body, ISKCON Pujyashri Rameshbhai Oza Gautambhai Oza Pujyashri Devaprasad Maharaj Vijuben Rajani , Shree Anandabawa Seva Sanstha , Shree Anandabawa Seva Sanstha Shri Balak Yogeshwardas Ji Maharaj , Badrinath Dham , Badrinath Dham Pujyashri Chidanand Saraswati , Head, Parmarth Niketan Ashram , Head, Parmarth Niketan Ashram Shree Namramuni Maharaj , Jain Muni, Founder-Prasadham , Jain Muni, Founder-Prasadham Dhirendra Kumar Garg , Guru, Bageshwar Dham , Guru, Bageshwar Dham Baba Ramdev , Yoga Guru , Yoga Guru Swami Rambhadracharya Swami Kailashanand , Mahamandaleshwar, Niranjani Akhara , Mahamandaleshwar, Niranjani Akhara Avdeshanand Giri , Mahamandaleshwar, Juna Akhara , Mahamandaleshwar, Juna Akhara Shri Devkinandan Thakurji Maharaj , Vishwa Shanti Sewa Trust , Vishwa Shanti Sewa Trust Didi Maa Sadhvi Ritambhara Ji , Vatsalya Gram , Vatsalya Gram Swami Parmatmnaad ji , Founder, Param Shakti Peeth , 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) (American politician) Tony Blair (Former Prime Minister, UK) (Former Prime Minister, UK) Boris Johnson (Former Prime Minister, UK) (Former Prime Minister, UK) Matteo Renzi (Former Prime Minister of Italy) (Former Prime Minister of Italy) Sebastian Kurz (Former Prime Minister of Austria) (Former Prime Minister of Austria) Stephen Harper , Former Prime Minister of Canada , Former Prime Minister of Canada Carl Bildt (Former Prime Minister of Sweden) (Former Prime Minister of Sweden) Mohamed Nasheed (Former President of Maldives) (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) (President & CEO, Aramco) H. E. Khaldoon Al Mubarak , CEO, Managing Director, Mubadala , CEO, Managing Director, Mubadala Murray Auchincloss (CEO, bp) (CEO, bp) Robert Dudley (Former CEO – bp, Board Member – Aramco) (Former CEO – bp, Board Member – Aramco) Mark Tucker (Group Chairman, HSBC Holdings Plc) (Group Chairman, HSBC Holdings Plc) Bernard Looney (Former CEO, bp) (Former CEO, bp) Shantanu Narayen (CEO, Adobe) (CEO, Adobe) Michael Grimes (Managing Director, Morgan Stanley) (Managing Director, Morgan Stanley) Igor Sechin , CEO, Rosneft , CEO, Rosneft Jay Lee , Executive Chairman, Samsung Electronics , Executive Chairman, Samsung Electronics Dilhan Pillay (CEO, Temasek Holdings) (CEO, Temasek Holdings) Emma Walmsley (CEO, GlaxoSmithKline) (CEO, GlaxoSmithKline) David Constable (CEO, Fluor Corporation) (CEO, Fluor Corporation) Jim Teague (CEO, Enterprise GP) (CEO, Enterprise GP) Gianni Infantino (IOC Member, President of FIFA) (IOC Member, President of FIFA) Juan Antonio Samaranch (Vice President, IOC) (Vice President, IOC) Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala (Director-General, WTO) (Director-General, WTO) Kim Kardashian , Media personality, Socialite , Media personality, Socialite Khloe Kardashian , Media personality, Socialite , Media personality, Socialite Dinesh Paliwal (Partner, KKR) (Partner, KKR) Lim Chow Kiat , CEO, GIC , CEO, GIC Michael Klein , Managing Partner, M. Klein & Company , Managing Partner, M. Klein & Company Bader Mohammad Al-Saad (Director, KIA) (Director, KIA) Yoshihiro Hyakutome , Senior Managing Executive Officer, SMBC , Senior Managing Executive Officer, SMBC Khalil Mohammed Sharif Foulathi , Vice Chairman, ADIA , Vice Chairman, ADIA Peter Diamandis , Executive Chairman, Singularity University , Executive Chairman, Singularity University Jay Shetty (Podcaster, Author, Coach) (Podcaster, Author, Coach) Jeff Koons (Artist) (Artist) January Makamba (Foreign Affairs & East African Cooperation) (Foreign Affairs & East African Cooperation) James Taiclet (CEO, Lockheed Martin) (CEO, Lockheed Martin) Eric Cantor (Vice Chairman, Moelis & Company) (Vice Chairman, Moelis & Company) Enrique Lores (President & CEO, HP Inc.) (President & CEO, HP Inc.) Borje Ekholm (President & CEO, Ericsson) (President & CEO, Ericsson) William Lin (Executive Vice President, bp) (Executive Vice President, bp) Tommi Uitto, President, Nokia Mobile Networks Mrs & Mr Anant Ambani In the spirit of 'Manav Seva hi Madhav Seva' (Service to humanity is service to God), the Ambani family inaugurated their wedding festivities with a Samuhik Vivah—a mass wedding for 50 underprivileged couples at Reliance Corporate Park, Navi Mumbai. All family members personally blessed the newlyweds, with over 800 guests joining this humanitarian celebration. Further embracing the spirit of giving, a community kitchen (Bhandara) operated for three weeks, feeding over 1,000 people daily—ensuring the celebrations shared joy beyond social circles. The multi-day festivities honored a variety of spiritual and cultural traditions: Mosalu: A cherished Gujarati ritual where the groom's maternal family blesses the couple with gifts. A cherished Gujarati ritual where the groom's maternal family blesses the couple with gifts. Valley of Gods: Spiritual dance performances led by Nita Ambani at the Jamnagar temple complex, symbolizing maternal love and divine connection. Spiritual dance performances led by Nita Ambani at the Jamnagar temple complex, symbolizing maternal love and divine connection. Sangeet: A lively evening of music and dance, where Mukesh and Nita Ambani joyously participated alongside family and friends. A lively evening of music and dance, where Mukesh and Nita Ambani joyously participated alongside family and friends. Grah Shanti & Randal Maa Pooja: Prayers to Lord Ganesha and the Nava Grah to seek harmony, fortune, and remove obstacles. Prayers to Lord Ganesha and the Nava Grah to seek harmony, fortune, and remove obstacles. Peethi/Haldi: A joyous, traditional ceremony celebrating familial bonds and cultural continuity. A joyous, traditional ceremony celebrating familial bonds and cultural continuity. Bhajans & Shiv Shakti Puja: A solemn observance of divine energies, reflecting the balance of cosmic forces. A solemn observance of divine energies, reflecting the balance of cosmic forces. The Wedding: Performed according to sacred Vedic traditions, in the presence of elders, dharmagurus, and the holy fire. Performed according to sacred Vedic traditions, in the presence of elders, dharmagurus, and the holy fire. Receptions: Held over three days for global guests, extended family, and notably, a special celebration for the Ambani household staff, honoring their invaluable contributions. The wedding venue, inspired by 'An Ode to Banaras,' recreated the soul of the eternal city. Guests walked through immersive installations evoking the ghats, temples, and vibrant streets of Varanasi. This tribute celebrated the city's rich heritage of art, spirituality, and culinary traditions, bringing its timeless beauty to life at the Jio World Centre. The dress code, 'Resplendently Indian,' saw guests donning traditional Indian attire—showcasing the country's rich legacy of textiles, handcrafts, and couture. The vibrant colors, intricate weaves, and timeless silhouettes highlighted the artistry of India's leading designers and artisans. The wedding of Radhika Merchant and Anant Ambani was far more than a personal milestone. It was a cultural landmark—an affirmation of India's enduring traditions, its spiritual leadership, and its rising influence on the global stage. One year later, the event stands as a testament to India's ability to harmoniously blend heritage with modernity, creating a global celebration that will be remembered for generations. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
India Today
12-07-2025
- Business
- India Today
When the world came to India: Global leaders at the Ambani wedding
The wedding of Radhika Merchant and Anant Ambani wasn't just India's event of the year, it was a global affair. With leaders flying in from every continent, the celebration became a symbol of India's rising on the world of the prominent faces at the wedding were:Swami Sadananda Saraswati, Shankaracharya, DwarkaSwami Avimukteshwarand Saraswati, Shankaracharya, JoshimathGaurang Das Prabhu, Divisional Director, ISKCONGaur Gopal Das, Monk, ISKCONRadhanath Swami, Member, Governing Body, ISKCONPujyashri Rameshbhai OzaGautambhai OzaPujyashri Devaprasad MaharajVijuben Rajani, Shree Anandabawa Seva SansthaShri Balak Yogeshwardas Ji Maharaj, Badrinath DhamPujyashri Chidanand Saraswati, Head, Parmarth Niketan AshramShree Namramuni Maharaj, Jain Muni, Founder-PrasadhamDhirendra Kumar Garg, Guru, Bageshwar DhamBaba Ramdev, Yoga GuruSwami RambhadracharyaSwami Kailashanand, Mahamandaleshwar, Niranjani AkharaAvdeshanand Giri, Mahamandaleshwar, Juna AkharaShri Devkinandan Thakurji Maharaj, Vishwa Shanti Sewa TrustDidi Maa Sadhvi Ritambhara Ji, Vatsalya GramSwami Parmatmnaad ji, Founder, Param Shakti PeethShri Vishal Rakesh ji Goswami, Head Priest, Shrinathji Temple advertisementIn 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, Italy)Sebastian Kurz (Former Prime Minister, Austria)Stephen Harper, Former Prime Minister, CanadaCarl Bildt (Former Prime Minister, Sweden)Mohamed Nasheed (Former President, Maldives)H. E. Samia Suluhu Hassan (President, Tanzania)A vast number of global business leaders also travelled 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)Mark Zuckerberg (CEO, Meta) Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg at Ambani wedding 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)Ivanka Trump (American businesswoman) Ivanka Trump with family at Ambani wedding Dinesh Paliwal (Partner, KKR)Lim Chow Kiat, CEO, GICMichael Klein, Managing Partner, M. Klein & CompanyBader Mohammad Al-Saad (Director, KIA)Yoshihiro Hyakutome, Senior Managing Executive Officer, SMBCKhalil Mohammed Sharif Foulathi, Vice Chairman, ADIAPeter Diamandis, Executive Chairman, Singularity UniversityJay Shetty (Podcaster, Author, Coach)Jeff Koons (Artist)The wedding was a message of India's cultural soft power, spiritual richness, and economic might were on full display. That this celebration drew not only politicians and CEOs but also artists, athletes, and entertainers shows how wide-reaching the country's influence has one family's celebration, India powerfully said: We're hosting the world.- Ends
Time Business News
12-07-2025
- Business
- Time Business News
Cultural Diplomacy in Action: India's Grand Celebrations Capture Global Imagination
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 has elegantly slipped away since the matrimonial union of Radhika Merchant and Anant Ambani resonated across continents, not merely as a nuptial festivity but as a resounding testament of India's cultural grandeur. Their 2024 alliance metamorphosed beyond societal spectacle—becoming an epochal cultural beacon that unfurled India's soft power onto the global stage. Millions, entranced by the sanctity of these rites, witnessed an anthology of heritage unfold, seamlessly broadcast across the arteries of traditional and digital media. In the corpus of Hindu dharma, marriage is consecrated not as a transitory social arrangement but as an immutable, celestial covenant. It symbolizes the harmonious fusion of two souls, their familial lineages, and broader communities, sanctified through a symphony of intricate rites. Its raison d'être transcends personal joy, embracing duties toward cosmic order (dharma) and societal equilibrium. Amidst the contemporary drift toward simplified ceremonies, the youthful Ambani couple elected to reverently adhere to time-honored Vedic customs. Their decision emanated from an abiding veneration for these sacred traditions and a profound yearning to initiate their matrimonial voyage amidst blessings bestowed by sages and elders. Their wedding broadcasted this spiritual fidelity worldwide, with global dignitaries privileged to witness India's timeless essence firsthand. In an era where India is assertively scripting its narrative across financial, technological, and geopolitical landscapes, this spiritually anchored and meticulously orchestrated wedding magnified India's visage as the metaphysical heartland of the world. The constellation of guests reflected India's magnetic pull on the global conscience, a reflection of its ascent as a powerhouse of thought, innovation, and influence. Reliance Industries and the Ambani dynasty, through this sublime gathering, illustrated their deliberate cultivation of transcultural alliances, fortifying India's emergence as a vanguard of global civilization. This wedding congregation eclipsed ordinary social gatherings—manifesting as perhaps the most profound assembly of Vedic spiritual dignitaries in recent memory. Dharmagurus attending the festivities included: Swami Sadananda Saraswati , Shankaracharya, Dwarka , Shankaracharya, Dwarka Swami Avimukteshwarand Saraswati , Shankaracharya, Joshimath , Shankaracharya, Joshimath Gaurang Das Prabhu , Divisional Director, ISKCON , Divisional Director, ISKCON Gaur Gopal Das , Monk, ISKCON , Monk, ISKCON Radhanath Swami , Member, Governing Body, ISKCON , Member, Governing Body, ISKCON Pujyashri Rameshbhai Oza Gautambhai Oza Pujyashri Devaprasad Maharaj Vijuben Rajani , Shree Anandabawa Seva Sanstha , Shree Anandabawa Seva Sanstha Shri Balak Yogeshwardas Ji Maharaj , Badrinath Dham , Badrinath Dham Pujyashri Chidanand Saraswati , Head, Parmarth Niketan Ashram , Head, Parmarth Niketan Ashram Shree Namramuni Maharaj , Jain Muni, Founder-Prasadham , Jain Muni, Founder-Prasadham Dhirendra Kumar Garg , Guru, Bageshwar Dham , Guru, Bageshwar Dham Baba Ramdev , Yoga Guru , Yoga Guru Swami Rambhadracharya Swami Kailashanand , Mahamandaleshwar, Niranjani Akhara , Mahamandaleshwar, Niranjani Akhara Avdeshanand Giri , Mahamandaleshwar, Juna Akhara , Mahamandaleshwar, Juna Akhara Shri Devkinandan Thakurji Maharaj , Vishwa Shanti Sewa Trust , Vishwa Shanti Sewa Trust Didi Maa Sadhvi Ritambhara Ji , Vatsalya Gram , Vatsalya Gram Swami Parmatmnaad ji , Founder, Param Shakti Peeth , 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) (American politician) Tony Blair (Former Prime Minister, UK) (Former Prime Minister, UK) Boris Johnson (Former Prime Minister, UK) (Former Prime Minister, UK) Matteo Renzi (Former Prime Minister of Italy) (Former Prime Minister of Italy) Sebastian Kurz (Former Prime Minister of Austria) (Former Prime Minister of Austria) Stephen Harper , Former Prime Minister of Canada , Former Prime Minister of Canada Carl Bildt (Former Prime Minister of Sweden) (Former Prime Minister of Sweden) Mohamed Nasheed (Former President of Maldives) (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) (President & CEO, Aramco) H. E. Khaldoon Al Mubarak , CEO, Managing Director, Mubadala , CEO, Managing Director, Mubadala Murray Auchincloss (CEO, bp) (CEO, bp) Robert Dudley (Former CEO – bp, Board Member – Aramco) (Former CEO – bp, Board Member – Aramco) Mark Tucker (Group Chairman, HSBC Holdings Plc) (Group Chairman, HSBC Holdings Plc) Bernard Looney (Former CEO, bp) (Former CEO, bp) Shantanu Narayen (CEO, Adobe) (CEO, Adobe) Michael Grimes (Managing Director, Morgan Stanley) (Managing Director, Morgan Stanley) Igor Sechin , CEO, Rosneft , CEO, Rosneft Jay Lee , Executive Chairman, Samsung Electronics , Executive Chairman, Samsung Electronics Dilhan Pillay (CEO, Temasek Holdings) (CEO, Temasek Holdings) Emma Walmsley (CEO, GlaxoSmithKline) (CEO, GlaxoSmithKline) David Constable (CEO, Fluor Corporation) (CEO, Fluor Corporation) Jim Teague (CEO, Enterprise GP) (CEO, Enterprise GP) Gianni Infantino (IOC Member, President of FIFA) (IOC Member, President of FIFA) Juan Antonio Samaranch (Vice President, IOC) (Vice President, IOC) Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala (Director-General, WTO) (Director-General, WTO) Kim Kardashian , Media personality, Socialite , Media personality, Socialite Khloe Kardashian , Media personality, Socialite , Media personality, Socialite Dinesh Paliwal (Partner, KKR) (Partner, KKR) Lim Chow Kiat , CEO, GIC , CEO, GIC Michael Klein , Managing Partner, M. Klein & Company , Managing Partner, M. Klein & Company Bader Mohammad Al-Saad (Director, KIA) (Director, KIA) Yoshihiro Hyakutome , Senior Managing Executive Officer, SMBC , Senior Managing Executive Officer, SMBC Khalil Mohammed Sharif Foulathi , Vice Chairman, ADIA , Vice Chairman, ADIA Peter Diamandis , Executive Chairman, Singularity University , Executive Chairman, Singularity University Jay Shetty (Podcaster, Author, Coach) (Podcaster, Author, Coach) Jeff Koons (Artist) (Artist) January Makamba (Foreign Affairs & East African Cooperation) (Foreign Affairs & East African Cooperation) James Taiclet (CEO, Lockheed Martin) (CEO, Lockheed Martin) Eric Cantor (Vice Chairman, Moelis & Company) (Vice Chairman, Moelis & Company) Enrique Lores (President & CEO, HP Inc.) (President & CEO, HP Inc.) Borje Ekholm (President & CEO, Ericsson) (President & CEO, Ericsson) William Lin (Executive Vice President, bp) (Executive Vice President, bp) Tommi Uitto, President, Nokia Mobile Networks Mrs & Mr Anant Ambani Echoing the maxim 'Manav seva hi Madhav seva' (Service to humanity is service to divinity), the Ambani family inaugurated their matrimonial rites with a Samuhik Vivah—a collective wedding ceremony for 50 underprivileged couples at Reliance Corporate Park. This gesture, attended by over 800 guests, symbolized compassion woven into festivity. Furthermore, the family orchestrated a communal Bhandara, serving nourishing meals to thousands over three continuous weeks—an embodiment of hospitality without bounds, where tradition met philanthropy at the intersection of joy. Their celebrations were interspersed with a myriad of culturally rich traditions: Mosalu Ceremony: A Gujarati rite where the maternal uncle lavishes the couple with the ceremonial Mameru gifts. A Gujarati rite where the maternal uncle lavishes the couple with the ceremonial Mameru gifts. Valley of Gods: Reverent dance offerings at the Jamnagar temple, led by Smt. Nita Ambani, reverberated with spiritual fervor and motherly devotion. Reverent dance offerings at the Jamnagar temple, led by Smt. Nita Ambani, reverberated with spiritual fervor and motherly devotion. Sangeet: A jubilant confluence of melody and dance, where kinfolk infused the air with laughter and rhythm, including heartfelt performances by Mukesh and Nita Ambani. A jubilant confluence of melody and dance, where kinfolk infused the air with laughter and rhythm, including heartfelt performances by Mukesh and Nita Ambani. Grah Shanti Pooja: An intricate invocation seeking planetary harmony and auspicious beginnings. An intricate invocation seeking planetary harmony and auspicious beginnings. Peethi/Haldi: A festive gathering where turmeric's golden hues bathed the couple in joy and blessings. A festive gathering where turmeric's golden hues bathed the couple in joy and blessings. Bhajans & Shiv Shakti Puja: Sacred chants and rituals invoking the cosmic energies of Shiva and Shakti, underscoring spiritual unity. Sacred chants and rituals invoking the cosmic energies of Shiva and Shakti, underscoring spiritual unity. The Wedding Ceremony: Culminating in the sacred saptapadi beside the agni (holy fire), under the solemn gaze of elders and dharmagurus. Culminating in the sacred saptapadi beside the agni (holy fire), under the solemn gaze of elders and dharmagurus. Receptions: Over three days, the celebrations embraced colleagues, extended family, and most touchingly, household staff from Antilia and beyond—honoring every contributor to the Ambani family's journey. The wedding's thematic décor, 'An Ode to Banaras,' transported guests to the mystical ghats of Kashi. Amidst the Concourse of Jio World Centre, the fragrances, flavors, and artistry of the eternal city mingled with grandeur, offering an immersive voyage through Banaras' sacred alleys and timeless spirit. In tandem, the dress code 'Resplendently Indian' enrobed every attendee in indigenous finery—a kaleidoscope of India's sartorial legacy. The convergence of textures, weaves, and embroidery celebrated the artisans whose deft hands sustain India's cultural mosaic. The union of Radhika Merchant and Anant Ambani transcended mere matrimony; it was a narrative etched into India's cultural annals. A tableau of spirituality, human empathy, and global harmony, this wedding left an indelible mark upon the tapestry of India's modern identity—where heritage and progress waltz in sublime synchrony. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
News18
12-07-2025
- Business
- News18
How Anant Ambani-Radhika Merchant Wedding Put India On The Global Map
Last Updated: The meticulously organised and deeply spiritual ceremony further augmented India's image as the spirituality capital of the world In July 2024, the world tuned in as Anant Ambani—the younger son of businessman Mukesh Ambani and Nita Ambani—and Radhika Merchant tied the knot. The marriage ceremony transcended a mere social event to become India's most widely followed cultural phenomenon—one that put the country on the global map—with millions globally witnessing the beautiful and deeply meaningful rituals unfold across mainstream and social media. The Sacred Significance of Hindu Marriage In Hindu tradition, marriage is revered not just as a social contract but as a sacred and lifelong commitment. It represents a divine union between two individuals, their families, and communities, solemnised and celebrated with elaborate rituals and customs. The purpose of Hindu marriage extends beyond personal fulfillment, encompassing the fulfillment of religious duties (dharma) and contributing to societal order. While modern practicalities often preclude most weddings from adhering to all ancient rituals, the young Ambani couple chose to meticulously follow every Indian tradition and custom. This choice stemmed from their deep reverence for these practices and a profound desire to commence their married life with the blessings and wisdom of elders and spiritual leaders. The Radhika-Anant wedding effectively conveyed this powerful message globally, with numerous international luminaries present to experience it firsthand. Augmenting India's Global Image At a time when India is confidently asserting its rightful place on the world stage, building significant prowess across financial, technological, and industrial sectors, this meticulously organised and deeply spiritual ceremony further augmented India's image as the spirituality capital of the world. The wedding guest list itself reflected India's burgeoning international appeal and its rise to a central role in global affairs. The presence of esteemed individuals highlighted India's growing economic, political, intellectual, and scientific strengths. The ability of Reliance Industries and the Ambani Family to host such a grand assembly of global dignitaries from diverse fields underscored their focused efforts to cultivate deep, inclusive, and meaningful relationships, consistently working to position India as a global leader. A Confluence of Luminaries The wedding was a remarkable gathering of religious and spiritual leaders from various Vedic Hindu traditions, making it the largest congregation of such figures at a wedding ceremony in recent memory. 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 Embracing Humanity and Tradition In the true spirit of 'Manav seva hi Madhav seva" – service to humanity is the true service to God – the Ambani family initiated their wedding celebrations with a Samuhik Vivah (mass wedding) for 50 underprivileged couples at Reliance Corporate Park, Navi Mumbai. Over 800 guests attended this event, with all Ambani family members present to bestow blessings and gifts upon the newlyweds. Furthermore, the Ambani family ensured that no one went without food for three weeks alongside the wedding celebrations. A Bhandara was organised, serving over 1,000 lunches and dinners daily through a community kitchen, embodying the same principle of service to humanity. The wedding celebrations spanned several days, encompassing numerous smaller, yet deeply significant, rituals: • Mosalu: A Gujarati tradition where the groom's maternal uncle presents the bride and groom with traditional gifts known as Mameru. • Valley of Gods: Devotional dance performances led by Nita Ambani at the Jamnagar temple complex, symbolising a mother's love and showcasing Indian spirituality through dance. • Sangeet: The music ceremony, a joyous occasion where family members performed songs and dances for the couple, with spirited performances by both Mukesh and Nita Ambani. • Grah Shanti: A ritualistic pooja performed to invoke Lord Ganesha and the Nava Grah (nine planets) to remove obstacles, pacify negative planetary influences, and bring happiness and prosperity to the new couple. This was performed alongside the Puja of Randal Maa, a manifestation of Goddess Durga or Parvati. • Peethi/Haldi: A popular Indian wedding ritual, this ceremony brought families together for fun and to connect with an ancient, unbroken tradition. • Bhajans and Shiv Shakti Puja: A profound and meaningful ceremony celebrating the union and balance of divine energies, observed as a solemn and pious occasion. • The Wedding: The sacred wedding rituals were performed in the presence of the holy fire, elders, and spiritual leaders as the couple entered holy matrimony. • The Wedding Receptions: Receptions continued for three days, catering to various groups of extended friends, families, associates, and partners. Notably, one reception was dedicated to all staff from Antilia, Sea Wind, Karuna Sindhu, and other Ambani households, including housekeeping, security, secretarial, operations, and maintenance personnel. An Ode to Banaras and Resplendent Indian Attire The wedding day décor, themed 'An Ode to Banaras," offered a cherished and lasting experience for global leaders, taking them on a journey through the ghats of Banaras. This theme paid homage to the eternal city's traditions, piety, culture, arts, crafts, and cuisine. The immersive experience recreated the essence of Banaras's streets within the Concourse of the Wedding Venue at Jio World Centre, allowing guests to engage with the city's traditions, flavors, and spirituality. top videos View all The dress code theme, 'Resplendently Indian," saw all dignitaries and guests adorned in traditional Indian attires, showcasing a spectacular display of India's rich cultural heritage. This burst of colours, fabrics, textures, and techniques at the Ambani wedding vividly presented India's diverse and talented couturiers and artisans. The marriage of Radhika Merchant and Anant Ambani was not just a celebration of two individuals uniting, but a grand tapestry woven with threads of deep tradition, global connection, and profound spirituality, leaving an indelible mark on India's cultural landscape. About the Author News Desk The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk More Get breaking news, in-depth analysis, and expert perspectives on everything from politics to crime and society. Stay informed with the latest India news only on News18. Download the News18 App to stay updated! tags : anant ambani mukesh ambani Nita Ambani Radhika Merchant Reliance Industries Limited view comments Location : Mumbai, India, India First Published: July 12, 2025, 09:50 IST News india How Anant Ambani-Radhika Merchant Wedding Put India On The Global Map Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
New Indian Express
24-06-2025
- New Indian Express
Kerala Royal Enfield bikers go on a 'Bullets against Bullet' ride retracing Adi Shankaracharya's trail from Kalady to Kashmir
Over 1,200 years ago, a young monk from Kerala travelled from Kalady to Kashmir, propagating the oneness of existence, or what he termed Advaita. That ancient route traversed by Adi Shankaracharya was retraced recently by a team of 52 bikers who rode from Kalady to the Line of Control (LoC) as a homage to the lives lost in the Pahalgam attack and a message against terrorism. The bikers, who joined forces from across Kerala, rode under the motto 'Bullets against Bullet'. For the bullet that terrorists showered on tourists in Pahalgam, here were the bikers' own Royal Enfield Bullets. The two-week ride was flagged off on June 1 by Kochi City Police Commissioner Putta Vimaladitya, who also heads the state's anti-terrorism squad. 'The idea came up after my friend R Ramanand, director of the Abhinava Gupta Institute of Advanced Studies, Vagamon, posted on Facebook about how the Pahalgam attack would soon be forgotten after the initial hubbub. The post got a lot of support, which encouraged him to take the idea forward and form the 'Bullets against Bullet' team,' says Mani Karthik, a startup consultant, who was coordinated the core group and the planning of the journey. 'Some of us were researching the links between Kashmir and Kerala's tantric traditions. Also, Shankaracharya's influence in Kashmir is still revered. That's how we decided to follow Shankara's footsteps and named our mission 'Shankara to Sharda'. The Sharda here refers to the ancient Sharda Peeth, now in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, where Shankaracharya had travelled to in 7th century AD. We have restricted access to that place, and hence, our destination was the Yatri Sharda Peeth very close to the LoC, near the Kishanganga river.' Planning the journey wasn't without challenges. 'Our discussion group was infiltrated by stray social media users from as far as Pakistan, and agenda-driven individuals who tried to mar healthy conversations,' says Mani, who left a career in the US to settle in Kochi and guide NRIs keen on migrating and investing back home. 'We had to weed them out and plan carefully. Only our core group knew the route map. Everyone who wished to join was verified. We finalised 52 riders, including 10 women and a trans individual. Among us were techies, a temple priest, a farmer, and even a 76-year-old.' The 'biker priest' in the team was Praveen P M from Thiruvananthapuram, who rode with his wife Renjini and their five-year-old son Badrinath as pillion. 'We have done several such bike jaunts,' says Renjini. 'But this is the longest we have done.' The team faced many hurdles along the way. 'The summer blaze in some places was horrifying. When it got too sultry and humid, Badrinath, who rode on the bike with us otherwise, would switch to one of the two cars that accompanied the team as support vehicle. At times, there were delays when a bike broke down or a rider fell ill,' she recalls. Mani adds, 'On the leg from Nagpur to Guna through a forest stretch, we rode long into the night and couldn't find food. But through it all, we felt a higher power guiding us. Often, someone would appear just when we needed help. Other Royal Enfield bikers, whom we networked with, assisted us in finding service stations throughout the journey. People who came to know of our mission welcomed us warmly. In Hyderabad, we were treated to a five-star lunch. Our accommodation was mostly in auditoriums, ashrams, or sometimes open grounds.'
