Anjali Merchant Majithia, sister of Radhika Merchant, gained significant attention during the grand Ambani pre-wedding and wedding celebrations with her graceful fashion choices, standing out alongside the bride. Now in her 30s, she recently shared that joining her family’s pharmaceutical business wasn’t challenging due to her upbringing in that environment. Anjali and Radhika Merchant are the daughters of Viren and Shaila Merchant, who helm the Mumbai-based pharmaceutical company Encore Healthcare.
Speaking at a panel discussion hosted by Entrepreneur India, Anjali shared insights on her family’s legacy. “If you consider legacy, the kind of business that I’ve been a part of, I’ve been a part of it from a very, very young age. These were dinner table discussions…” she said, explaining how deeply rooted her involvement in the business has been since childhood.
As the director for international markets at Encore, she also reflected on a childhood experience that shaped her understanding of the pharmaceutical industry’s priorities. She recounted a moment when her family was visiting her ailing grandfather in Oman. “We were visiting my grandfather in Oman. He was unwell. That’s where he lived. My parents actually flew back for a USFDA audit because of how important that audit was,” she said.
Anjali explained how this experience initially surprised her, but ultimately guided her approach to the industry. “I come from a family where relationships are paramount. At that time, it shocked me. How can you leave? How can you step away in such a situation? But it also gave me guidance to know what is a priority in this industry… Regulatory compliance, at least in our industry, is extremely important,” she said. This lesson helped her establish her priorities as she entered the business, armed with the necessary guidance and support.
Anjali, who frequently attends Ambani family events, shared that her upbringing instilled in her the value of contributing to both her family and the broader business community, as well as to her country.
Anjali’s younger sister, Radhika Merchant, is married to Anant Ambani, the youngest son of Mukesh and Nita Ambani. Anjali holds a BSc in Entrepreneurship and Strategic Management from Babson College in Massachusetts, US, and an MBA from the London School of Business.
In 2020, Anjali married Aman Majithia, the founder of Vataly India, in a wedding ceremony held in Goa. They have a son, Adi, who was introduced by Nita Ambani in July during Radhika Merchant and Anant Ambani’s wedding reception.
