A walk-through Anant Ambani’s lavish pre-wedding venues with larger-than life decors

Anant Ambani, the youngest son of India’s richest person, Mukesh Ambani, is all set to marry Radhika Merchant, the daughter of industrialist Viren Merchant, on July 12, 2024. But before the big day, the couple and their families hosted a three-day pre-wedding extravaganza in Jamnagar, Gujarat, from March 1 to 3, 2024. The event was attended by more than 1000 guests, including business tycoons, celebrities, politicians, and sports stars, who witnessed the grandeur and opulence of the various venues and functions. Here is a walk-through of the lavish pre-wedding venues with larger-than-life decors that stole the show.

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The first day of the pre-wedding celebrations was themed ‘An Evening in Everland’, where the guests wore elegant cocktail attire and enjoyed a mesmerizing performance by global pop icon Rihanna, who was reportedly paid $5 million for the gig. There was a dazzling Cirque du Soleil performance as well. The venue was decorated with white, pink, and purple flowers, arranged by American floral designer Jeff Leatham, who has worked with celebrities like Kim Kardashian and Oprah Winfrey. The floral arrangements were so huge and stunning that they almost overshadowed the star-studded guest list.

Image: Manish Malhotra/Instagram

The second day of the pre-wedding festivities was inspired by art and nature, as the guests were invited to ‘A Walk on the Wildside’ at the Ambanis’ animal rescue centre Vantara in Jamnagar. The dress code was ‘jungle fever’, and the venue was adorned with peacock and jaguar motifs on chairs and furnishings. Forests, birds, and animals could be seen on everything from carpets to walls, creating a surreal and exotic atmosphere. The guests also got a chance to interact with some of the rescued animals and learn about their conservation efforts.

Image: Manish Malhotra/Instagram

The evening of the second day was a colourful and vibrant affair, as the guests proceeded to ‘Mela Rouge’, a carnival-themed function with a Indiawear dress code. The venue was transformed into a fairground, with Ferris wheels, merry-go-rounds, games, and food stalls. The guests enjoyed the festive mood and performances by artist and illusionist David Blaine and Diljit Dosanj. They also indulged in various activities and delicacies. The highlight of the evening was a spectacular fireworks display that lit up the sky.

Image: Manish Malhotra/Instagram

The third and final day of the pre-wedding celebrations was all about rest and relaxation for the guests before the evening festivities. According to the invitation provided to guests, the theme of the event was 'Tusker Trails' and the dress code was ‘casual chic'. The event was described as 'a relaxing brunch in close proximity with the gentle giants of Vantara'. It is clear that the event was set to be a relaxing affair, with guests invited to brunch in the presence of the elephants of Gajvan. It took place from 10:30 am to 2:00 PM.

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The Hastakshar ceremony was the pinnacle of the pre-wedding ceremonies and events for the marriage of Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant. The occasion started at 6 p.m. and called for guests to "immerse yourselves in the culture and tradition of India as we celebrate the promise of love." It took place in Jamnagar Township Temple complex and was an occasion to celebrate their union and symbolize the soon to be married couple's first chapter together.

Image: Manish Malhotra/Instagram

The Ambani's went all out when it came to the decor of the various venues that hosted the pre-wedding ceremonies of Anant and the Radhika. And as a result, the decor at the pre-wedding functions has gone viral on social media sites due to their sheer beauty and attention to detail. The walls at different venues were either adorned with stunning white peacock motifs while the door handles were shaped like elephant heads. Celebrity florist Jeff Leatham was roped in too, for the gorgeous and extravagant flower arrangements in shades of purple, pink and white that embellished Jamnagar and made it look like something out of a fairytale. As celebs made visits to Vantara animal shelter, netizens were also made privy to the various quirks and striking motifs and decor which included flower shaped couches and elaborate nature-inspired murals. Giant chandeliers and chairbacks embellised with ornate peacocks and other nature motifs filled in the rest of the lovely details. Mela Rouge featured elaborate and romantic rose arrangements in shades of pink and red and the atmosphere was almost movie-like with the Indian twist to the carnival-esque decor.

Image: Manish Malhotra/Instagram