Over the past few months, the Ambanis have captured global attention with the pre-wedding and wedding celebrations of Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant, now Radhika Ambani. Hailed as the wedding of the century, the festivities were grand, opulent, and extravagant, featuring stars like Justin Bieber and Kim Kardashian and showcasing the most luxurious couture. Yet, amidst all the splendor, the Ambanis did not forget their cultural and religious roots. Here are eight ways they demonstrated their deep respect and devotion to their Sanatan Dharma traditions.
1. The Vishwambhari Stuti
During the pre-wedding festivities, Anant’s mother, Nita Ambani, performed a beautiful dance on the Vishwambhari Stuti, a devotional hymn dedicated to Goddess Amba, the Mother of the Universe. Dressed elegantly, Nita’s movements and gestures reflected grace, pure devotion, and love.
2. A Bhandara Before the Wedding
The Ambanis organized a bhandara, a community feast, in Mumbai to feed the underprivileged. This act of ‘seva’ and ‘anna daan’ is highly valued in Sanatan Dharma, and it ensured that people from all walks of life, including those in need, were fed and cared for.
3. Shri Nath Ji’s Tilak
As devout followers of Shri Nath ji, an avatar of Shri Krishna, the Ambanis incorporated his tilak symbol in every wedding card and invite. Floral decorations and various rituals also featured his tilak. Radhika Merchant even wore a dress with Shri Nath ji’s motif.
4. Sanskrit Shlokas on Dresses
During the Shiv Shakti puja, Isha Ambani Piramal wore a golden lehenga adorned with Sanskrit shlokas from the Bhagavad Gita, including “Karmanye Vadhikaraste, Ma phaleshu kada chana.” Nita Ambani also wore a red lehenga with the Gayatri mantra during a mass wedding organized by the family.
5. Pashu-Seva
Service to animals, or pashu-seva, is another significant aspect of Sanatan Dharma. Anant Ambani, a passionate animal lover, runs ‘Vantara,’ an initiative for the betterment and rehabilitation of animals. Through various forms of pashu-seva, the Ambanis emphasize compassion and care for all living beings.
6. The First Invitation to Banke Bihari
For Anant and Radhika’s wedding, the first invitation was reportedly sent to the Banke Bihari temple in Vrindavan. Representatives from the Ambani family placed the invitation at the feet of Shri Krishna, and another invite was sent to Kedarnath.
7. Nita Ambani’s Trip to Kashi
A few days before the wedding, Nita Ambani visited Kashi (Varanasi) to seek blessings from Baba Vishwanath at the Kashi Vishwanath temple, one of the most sacred temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. She shared with the media that her visit was to ask for blessings for Anant and Radhika’s union.
Through these acts, the Ambanis beautifully blended opulence with deep cultural respect and devotion, honoring their traditions amidst grand celebrations.
