Anant Ambani, the youngest son of Reliance Industries chairman Mukesh Ambani, has tied the knot with Radhika Merchant in a grand wedding ceremony held at the family’s Mumbai residence, Antilia.
The engagement, a traditional ceremony, saw attendance from numerous celebrities and high-profile figures. Radhika Merchant, daughter of industrialist Viren Merchant, had her relationship with Anant publicly announced in 2019. The couple officially wed on July 12, 2024, in a ceremony that drew elite leaders and public figures from across the country.
A Personal Battle: Anant’s Health Journey
In a 2017 interview with The Times of India, Nita Ambani revealed the significant health challenges Anant faced due to severe asthma, which required prolonged steroid use. This treatment led to substantial weight gain, peaking at around 208 kg, highlighting the complex interplay between medical treatments and unintended consequences.
Asthma, a chronic respiratory condition, often necessitates steroids to manage airway inflammation. While effective, long-term steroid use can lead to side effects such as weight gain, osteoporosis, and increased infection risk. Managing asthma requires balancing symptom control with minimizing these risks, often under healthcare professional guidance.
Anant’s Weight Loss Transformation
In 2016, Anant’s remarkable weight loss journey captured public attention. He lost an impressive 108 kg in less than 18 months, inspiring many. Nita Ambani shared insights into this journey, explaining their time in Los Angeles at a children’s obesity hospital, which helped establish a routine for Anant.
Anant’s daily exercise regimen included a 21-km walk, yoga, weight training, functional training, and high-intensity cardio exercises. He adopted a zero-sugar, high-protein, low-carb diet, consuming 1200-1400 calories daily, focusing on fresh green vegetables, lentils, sprouts, pulses, and dairy products.
Raising Awareness and Advocacy
Anant and Radhika’s decision to share their story aims to raise awareness about the health challenges associated with obesity and the importance of proper food hygiene. They believe Anant contracted E.coli from pre-washed supermarket lettuce and emphasize the need for thorough washing of fruits and vegetables.
Societal Pressures and Public Scrutiny
Despite his significant transformation, Anant faced public scrutiny and fat-shaming, particularly when pre-wedding celebration photos went viral. This reflects societal tendencies to judge based on body size, underscoring the importance of empathy and support.
Looking Forward
As Anant and Radhika embark on their new journey together, their story serves as a testament to resilience, dedication, and the power of positive transformation. The grand wedding in Mumbai has captured the attention of the nation, with many eagerly anticipating what lies ahead for the couple.
Their journey, marked by personal triumphs and public challenges, offers invaluable lessons on commitment, holistic health, and the impact of supportive communities.