Images showcasing the couple’s pre-wedding festivities, which were held from March 1-3 in the Indian city of Jamnagar and cost a reported 120 million pounds (US$151.9 million), have been released on Thursday.
As reported by Vogue, Merchant (L) aimed for the celebration to exude a vibrant, youthful, and relaxing vibe. She selected dance-friendly dresses, emphasizing that dance is an essential element of Indian weddings.
Among her outfits was a creation by Indian designer Manish Malhotra, which drew inspiration from traditional corset designs.
The attire, embellished with more than 20,000 Swarovski crystals, was crafted by 70 skilled artisans. In this dazzling dress, the bride-to-be captivated over 1,500 attendees - including notable figures such as politicians, global billionaires, and artists like Bill Gates, Ivanka Trump, Mark Zuckerberg, and Rihanna - with her dance performance.
Having been acquainted since they were children, Merchant (fourth from R) and her soon-to-be husband Anant Ambani (fourth from L) shared a dance with friends from their youth.
A highlight of the celebration was the couple’s horse carriage ride around the wedding venue.
Merchant was adorned in a Versace dress, whereas Ambani donned a creation by Dolce & Gabbana.
“It felt magical, as if I were living in a dream,” Merchant shared with Vogue her enchantment with the festivities.
Another ensemble worn by Merchant during the festivities was a meticulously handcrafted saree by Indian designer Tarun Tahiliani, intricately designed with motifs symbolizing Indian heritage.
Many described the event as transporting guests into a whimsical fairy tale, complete with fireworks and a drone display. It is noteworthy that the event featured a performance by 5,500 drones, setting a record for the most drones ever used in a performance in India. The sky was adorned with drone-created imagery of the couple amidst nature.
The pre-wedding gala was highlighted by a performance from Barbadian pop and R&B singer-songwriter Rihanna, for which the Ambanis reportedly paid 5 million pounds (US$6.3 million).
The groom-to-be Ambani, 28, is the youngest child of Mukesh Ambani, who heads the Reliance Industries conglomerate with an annual revenue of US$110 billion.
As of March 8, Forbes ranks Mukesh Ambani’s fortune at US$116.3 billion, positioning him as the wealthiest individual in Asia and the ninth wealthiest globally.
Merchant, 29, the daughter of Shri Viren Merchant, the CEO of the notable Indian healthcare company Encore Healthcare.
The duo both completed their education in the U.S.
