Asia’s richest billionaire Ambani heir battles with weight management

Chronic asthma medication, as reported by Hindustan Times, led to Anant Ambani's significant weight gain in childhood, resulting in teasing. As an adult, his weight overshadowed his presence in the Ambani family.

In 2014, Anant undertook a determined weight loss journey, successfully losing 100 kg over 18 months to weigh 108 kg.

By 2016, under coach Vinod Channa's guidance, Anant Ambani further slimmed down to 88 kg.

Anant Ambani (L), son of Asia's richest man Mukesh Ambani, and his fiancée Radhika Merchant. Photo from Instagram/loveleen_makeupandhair

Channa's regime involved a 1,200-1,500 calorie diet, focusing on low sugar, fat, and carbs but high in fiber, alongside 5-6 hours of daily exercise including yoga, weight training, and a 21 km walk.

Nita Ambani significantly influenced Anant's weight loss journey, openly discussing his obesity and joining his new diet and exercise regimen, which led to her own weight loss of nearly 40 kg.

"Whenever he exercised, I did too. If he went for a walk, I would go along. By virtue of being his mother, I lost weight. He was my main motivation and continues to be, as we are still fighting obesity," said Nita.

In 2020, photos indicated Anant Ambani had regained weight, due to Covid-19 disruptions and asthma medication management challenges. Recent images from a March wedding sparked renewed weight discussions.

Muffazal Lakdawala, founder of the Digestive Health Institute in Mumbai, suggested the pressures of societal expectations and the pre-wedding may have contributed to this setback.

Despite attempts to revisit his successful weight loss, Anant's body has not yet adapted.

As of Mar. 4, 2024, Forbes lists Mukesh Ambani’s wealth at US$117 billion, making him Asia’s richest and the world’s ninth richest person.

At 28, Anant Ambani is the youngest offspring of Mukesh Ambani, who helms the Reliance Industries conglomerate, boasting annual revenues of US$110 billion.

His fiancée, Radhika Merchant, 29, is the daughter of Shri Viren Merchant, the chief executive of India’s prominent healthcare firm Encore Healthcare.

The couple, having been acquainted since their younger years, both received their education in the U.S.

Their pre-wedding celebrations, spanning from March 1-3, showcased diverse themes, events, and dress codes, with a highlight being the visit to an "animal rescue center" in Jamnagar. This center, which is home to various exotic animals, represents a special project led by Anant.