When you hear the name Anant Ambani, what comes to mind? Maybe it’s the jaw-dropping wedding that had Rihanna performing. Or perhaps it’s the incredible weight loss story that went viral across India. But here’s the thing—there’s way more to this guy than meets the eye.
Let’s dive deep into the life of Mukesh Ambani’s youngest son, the man who’s quietly building an animal kingdom while running energy projects worth billions. This isn’t just another rich kid story. It’s about transformation, purpose, and finding your own path when you’re born with everything.
Who Is Anant Ambani? The Man Behind the Transformation
Anant Mukesh Ambani was born on April 10, 1995, in Mumbai, India. He’s the youngest child of Mukesh Ambani (yeah, the richest man in Asia) and Nita Ambani. While most people know him as the billionaire’s son who lost massive weight, there’s actually a fascinating person behind those headlines.
At 31 years old, Anant’s become one of India’s most talked-about young business leaders. He’s not just riding on his family name—he’s carving out his own identity in green energy, animal welfare, and traditional Indian values. And trust me, his story’s got more twists than a Bollywood movie.
Early Life: Growing Up as a Billionaire’s Son
Birth and Family Background
Imagine being born into India’s wealthiest family. Sounds like a dream, right? Well, for Anant, it came with its own set of challenges.
He’s the youngest of three kids. His siblings—Akash and Isha (who are twins)—are four years older. Growing up, everyone always compared him to them. While they were making moves in business, Anant was dealing with something completely different.
His grandfather, Dhirubhai Ambani, founded Reliance Industries. His father turned it into a global empire. That’s some serious legacy pressure right there.
Life at Antilia: India’s Most Expensive Home
Anant grew up in Antilia, the 27-story building in South Mumbai that’s literally worth over a billion dollars. We’re talking three helipads, a 160-car garage, a private movie theater, and a staff of 600 people just to maintain the place.
But here’s what people don’t get—his mom, Nita Ambani, made sure all three kids understood the value of humility and service. Despite the crazy wealth, she grounded them in traditional Indian values. No spoiled brat syndrome allowed in the Ambani household.
Childhood Challenges with Asthma
This is where things get real. Anant’s been battling chronic asthma since he was just two years old. Yeah, two. That’s rough for any kid, but especially when you’re constantly in the public eye.
The doctors put him on high-dose steroids to control the asthma attacks. Here’s the problem—those steroids came with a brutal side effect: uncontrollable weight gain. We’re not talking about a few extra pounds. By his teenage years, Anant was severely obese, tipping the scales at around 175 kilograms.
The Weight That Defined His Early Years
Growing up overweight in India’s most high-profile family? That’s tough. Really tough.
Anant faced relentless fat-shaming. Every time he showed up at a Mumbai Indians cricket match or a family event, the trolls came out. Social media wasn’t kind. Neither were some members of the public. Some people saw a rich kid who couldn’t control his eating. They didn’t see the medical condition behind it all.
He’s also diabetic, which made controlling his diet even harder. The combination of asthma medication, diabetes, and being constantly watched by millions of people created the perfect storm for weight struggles.
Education: From Mumbai to Brown University
Schooling at Dhirubhai Ambani International School
Anant attended Dhirubhai Ambani International School, which—you guessed it—was founded and is managed by his own mother. It’s one of Mumbai’s most prestigious schools, known for its global curriculum and focus on holistic development.
He wasn’t just another student there. Teachers knew who he was, obviously. But from what we’ve heard, Anant kept his head down and focused on his studies. He developed a love for reading during these years, which has stuck with him.
College Years in America
Following his older brother Akash’s footsteps, Anant headed to Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island. Brown’s one of the Ivy League schools, known for its open curriculum and liberal arts focus.
What He Actually Studied and Why It Matters
Anant focused on economics and international relations at Brown. Makes sense when you think about it—understanding global markets and political dynamics is pretty crucial when you’re eventually going to help run one of India’s largest companies.
His time at Brown gave him something his siblings didn’t get as much of—relative anonymity. Sure, people knew his last name, but American college students aren’t as obsessed with Indian business families. It gave him space to breathe and figure out who he was beyond “Mukesh Ambani’s son.”
He graduated in 2017 with a bachelor’s degree in business management. Not just coasting through on the family name—he actually earned that degree.
Coming Back Home: Joining the Family Business
After graduation, Anant returned to India and officially joined Reliance Industries around 2015. But he didn’t jump straight into a corner office. According to people close to the family, he started learning the business from the ground up, spending time understanding different divisions before settling into his current role.
The Weight Loss Journey That Inspired Millions
Alright, let’s talk about the transformation that broke the internet.
The Starting Point: 175 kg and Struggling
By 2014, Anant weighed around 175 kilograms (that’s about 385 pounds). He was 19 years old and struggling with basic physical activities. Walking up stairs was a challenge. Playing sports with friends? Forget about it.
But here’s what changed everything—he made a decision. He wanted to get fit before his 21st birthday. Not because of the trolls or the public pressure. He did it for himself.
Why Steroids Made Things Worse
People kept asking, “Why didn’t he just stop eating so much?” They didn’t understand the medical reality.
The steroids he’d been taking since age two for his asthma literally increased his hunger levels. It’s not willpower—it’s chemistry. The medication messed with his metabolism and made weight gain almost inevitable. Plus, with severe asthma, high-intensity exercise wasn’t even an option for years.
Meeting Vinod Channa: The Trainer Who Changed Everything
Enter Vinod Channa, a celebrity fitness trainer who’d worked with Bollywood stars for over two decades. When Channa met Anant, he wasn’t sure what to expect. Another rich client who’d give up after a week?
Nope. Channa later said he’d never seen someone with Anant’s level of dedication. And coming from a guy who’s trained hundreds of celebrities, that means something.
The Brutal Daily Routine Nobody Talks About
Here’s what Anant actually did every single day for 18 months:
He’d wake up early and walk 21 kilometers. That’s about 13 miles. Every. Single. Day. Rain or shine. Feeling motivated or not. He walked.
But that wasn’t all. After the walk, he’d do:
- 90 minutes of yoga
- Intense weight training
- Functional training exercises
- High-intensity cardio workouts
We’re talking 5-6 hours of exercise daily. Not once a week at a fancy gym. Every single day.
108 kg in 18 Months: Breaking Down the Numbers
The results? Anant lost 108 kilograms in just 18 months. Let that sink in. That’s almost 240 pounds.
To put it in perspective, he was losing about 6 kilograms (13 pounds) every month consistently. That’s not easy, even with the best trainers and nutritionists money can buy. It requires insane mental strength and physical dedication.
Surgery wasn’t even an option because of his medical conditions. This was pure hard work, discipline, and determination.
The Diet That Actually Worked
So what was he eating? Vinod Channa put him on:
- Zero sugar diet (not low sugar—zero)
- Low-carb, high-protein meals
- Traditional Gujarati food (his favorite) but modified for weight loss
- No processed foods whatsoever
- Specific meal timing aligned with his workout schedule
It wasn’t some trendy diet from Instagram. It was scientifically designed for his specific medical conditions, especially the diabetes and asthma.
Life After Weight Loss: Maintaining the Transformation
The weight came off, but Anant’s been smart about keeping it off. Unlike many people who lose massive weight and gain it back, he’s maintained his transformation.
He still exercises regularly, though probably not 6 hours a day anymore. He’s continued his focus on wellness, yoga, and balanced living. The discipline he developed during those 18 months became a lifestyle, not just a phase.
His transformation inspired thousands of Indians struggling with weight issues. If the richest kid in the country could put in that kind of work, it showed that there were no shortcuts—not even for billionaires.
Career at Reliance: More Than Just a Name
Starting from the Bottom (Sort Of)
When Anant joined Reliance, he didn’t walk into a CEO office. He started learning the ropes, understanding different business units, and getting his hands dirty.
Sure, he had access his family name provided. But according to insiders, he spent time on factory floors, in boardrooms, and learning from experienced executives who’d been with Reliance for decades.
Current Role: Head of Energy Business
On August 29, 2022, Mukesh Ambani made a major announcement at Reliance’s 45th Annual General Meeting. He revealed the succession plan for his company.
Akash got telecom and digital services. Isha got retail. And Anant? He became the head of the energy business—arguably the most crucial and traditional part of Reliance.
This wasn’t a ceremonial position. Anant’s now responsible for overseeing:
- Traditional oil and gas operations
- The massive Jamnagar refinery complex
- Reliance’s pivot to renewable energy
- Future energy projects worth billions
The Green Energy Vision Nobody’s Talking About
Here’s where Anant’s really making his mark. While everyone focuses on his weight loss and wedding, he’s quietly working on something massive—transforming Reliance into a net-carbon-zero company by 2035.
He’s spearheading the development of the Dhirubhai Ambani Green Energy Giga Complex in Jamnagar. This isn’t small-scale stuff. We’re talking about:
- Solar photovoltaic module manufacturing
- Energy storage battery production
- Electrolyzer facilities for green hydrogen
- Fuel cell technology development
The goal? Position India as a global leader in clean energy. And Anant’s the guy driving this vision forward.
Board Positions Across Reliance Companies
On August 28, 2023, Anant joined the board of Reliance Industries as a non-executive director, alongside his siblings. He also holds director positions at:
- Jio Platforms Limited (since March 2020)
- Reliance Retail Ventures Limited (since May 2022)
- Reliance New Energy Limited (since June 2021)
- Reliance New Solar Energy Limited (since June 2021)
That’s not just showing up for board meetings. Each position comes with real responsibilities and strategic decisions.
Working with His Siblings: The Power Dynamic
People love speculating about sibling rivalry in wealthy families. Are Anant, Akash, and Isha competing? Fighting over the empire?
From what Anant’s said in interviews, there’s genuine respect between them. They’ve carved out different territories—tech for Akash, retail for Isha, energy for Anant. The strategy seems to be complementary, not competitive.
In a rare interview, Anant mentioned that his older siblings have been supportive mentors. They’ve been in the business longer and have helped guide him. The family dynamics seem healthier than outsiders assume.
His First Major Speech That Went Viral
On December 23, 2017, Anant delivered his first major public speech at the celebration of his great-grandfather Dhirubhai Ambani’s birth anniversary and Reliance’s 40th listing anniversary.
He said something that revealed his mindset: “For me, to serve the Reliance family is the most important mission of my life. India should lead the change and Reliance should be at the forefront of that change. Reliance meri jaan hai (Reliance is my life).”
That speech showed he wasn’t just going through the motions. He genuinely believes in the company’s mission and his role in it.
Vantara: The Animal Kingdom He Built
What Exactly Is Vantara?
Vantara is Anant’s passion project—a massive 3,000-acre (some sources say 3,500 acres) animal rescue and rehabilitation center in Jamnagar, Gujarat.
The name “Vantara” comes from Sanskrit, meaning “star of the forest.” It’s not just a zoo or a sanctuary. It’s a state-of-the-art facility designed to rescue, rehabilitate, and care for injured, abused, or endangered animals.
Why Elephants? The Passion That Started It All
Since childhood, Anant’s been obsessed with elephants. Not in a casual “they’re cute” way—he’s literally been described as “a walking encyclopedia on animals” by people who know him.
In 2008, when he was just 13 years old, Anant decided to learn the Mahouti language—the specific commands and communication methods used by elephant handlers in India. That’s dedication.
His love for elephants led him to start rescuing them. Many elephants in India work in temples or tourist spots under difficult conditions. Anant’s been bringing them to Vantara for proper care and retirement.
A 3,000-Acre Dream in Jamnagar
The facility sits within the Reliance Township in Jamnagar and includes:
- Modern veterinary hospitals
- Specialized enclosures for different species
- Quarantine facilities
- Research centers
- Educational programs
- A team of international animal care experts
During his pre-wedding celebration in March 2024, guests (including Mark Zuckerberg and Bill Gates) got a tour of Vantara. The photos and videos showed the incredible scale of what Anant’s built.
The Animals He’s Saving
Vantara houses:
- Over 200 elephants rescued from harsh conditions
- Leopards and other big cats
- Reptiles including crocodiles and snakes
- Various bird species
- Endangered animals needing specialized care
The facility doesn’t just keep animals—it actively rehabilitates them with the goal of releasing them back into the wild when possible. For animals that can’t be released, Vantara provides a permanent, humane home.
Controversies and the SIT Investigation
Nothing in India happens without controversy, right? In 2025, a Supreme Court-appointed Special Investigation Team (SIT) started investigating Vantara.
Petitions were filed raising concerns about:
- How animals were acquired (from India and abroad)
- Whether proper legal approvals were obtained
- Compliance with the Wildlife Protection Act
- Alleged mistreatment claims
The SIT sent nearly 200 questions to Vantara’s management and spent three days inspecting the facility. They reviewed documents on animal transfers, funding, veterinary treatment, and legal permissions.
Anant’s team has cooperated fully with the investigation. No major violations have been publicly reported yet, but the case is still ongoing.
More Than Just a Rescue Center
For Anant, Vantara isn’t a hobby or a PR move. It’s deeply personal. His spirituality and values emphasize service to all living beings, and Vantara is his way of putting that into action.
He’s personally involved—visiting the facility regularly, overseeing care standards, and funding research into better animal welfare practices. It’s not just his name on the project; it’s his heart.
Love Story: Anant and Radhika Merchant
How They Actually Met
Radhika Merchant was born on December 18, 1994, making her about four months older than Anant. She’s the daughter of Viren Merchant, CEO of Encore Healthcare, one of India’s leading pharmaceutical companies.
The official story? They met in 2017 through mutual friends during a drive. But here’s what people close to the family say—Radhika and Anant actually knew each other much earlier. Their families moved in the same social circles, and they’d crossed paths at various events over the years.
From Friendship to Forever
Initially, they were just friends. Radhika was pursuing her education at New York University and working at her father’s company as a marketing director. Anant was establishing himself at Reliance.
But somewhere along the way, friendship turned into something more. Both families approved (which matters a lot in traditional Indian business families), and the relationship became serious.
The Engagement Nobody Saw Coming
On December 29, 2022, Anant proposed to Radhika at the Shrinathji Temple in Rajasthan. It was a spiritual, intimate moment away from the media circus.
The formal engagement ceremony happened on January 19, 2023, with all the traditional Gujarati rituals like gol dhana and chunari vidhi. Close family and friends attended, and the photos showed genuine happiness on both their faces.
Pre-Wedding Events That Broke the Internet
The couple’s pre-wedding celebrations in Jamnagar from March 1-3, 2024, were absolutely insane. We’re talking:
- 1,200 guests including Bollywood stars, tech billionaires, and royalty
- Rihanna performing live in India for the first time
- A tour of Vantara for all guests
- Multiple themed parties
- Private concerts by international artists
Jamnagar airport even received temporary international status just to handle all the private jets flying in. That’s the kind of scale we’re talking about.
Mark Zuckerberg posted about the trip. Bill Gates was there. The guest list read like a who’s who of global power.
The Wedding of the Century: July 2024
The actual wedding took place from July 12-14, 2024, split between Antilia and the Jio World Convention Centre in Mumbai.
The estimated cost? Between $600 million to $1 billion. Yeah, you read that right. It might be the most expensive wedding in history.
The wedding featured:
- Traditional Hindu ceremonies
- Performances by multiple celebrities
- Guest lists that included politicians, business leaders, Bollywood A-listers, and international dignitaries
- Custom fashion by world-renowned designers
- Elaborate floral arrangements by celebrity florist Preston Bailey
Radhika wore multiple custom outfits, including a Manish Malhotra lehenga with intricate zardozi work, a Versace gown, and other pieces from top designers. One of her outfits featured a dupatta made from 90 yellow marigold flowers and thousands of jasmine buds—took six hours to complete.
Life as a Married Couple
Post-wedding, Anant and Radhika have settled into married life. They’ve been spotted together at temple visits, cultural events, and family functions.
Radhika shares Anant’s interest in classical Indian arts (she’s a trained classical dancer), philanthropy, and spirituality. She’s also been involved with Reliance Foundation’s initiatives.
In 2024, Mukesh and Nita gifted the newlyweds a luxurious beachside villa in Palm Jumeirah, Dubai, reportedly costing around Rs. 640 crores (about $80 million). The 3,000-square-foot property includes 10 bedrooms and a 70-meter private beach.
Spiritual Side: Temples, Faith, and Values
His Deep Connection to Lord Balaji
Anant’s devotion to Lord Balaji (also known as Venkateswara) isn’t just for show. He’s been making pilgrimages to the Tirumala Venkateswara Temple since childhood.
In one notable gesture, he donated a sacred white elephant to Lord Balaji—a traditional offering that shows deep reverence in Hindu culture.
Member of the Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee
In March 2019, the then-chief minister of Uttarakhand, Trivendra Singh Rawat, appointed Anant as a member of the Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee.
This isn’t a ceremonial position. The committee oversees two of Hinduism’s most important pilgrimage sites in the Himalayas. It handles:
- Temple management and administration
- Pilgrimage facilities and safety
- Preservation of sacred sites
- Development of spiritual infrastructure
The appointment showed recognition of Anant’s genuine commitment to spiritual and cultural preservation.
Temple Visits That Made Headlines
Anant’s been photographed visiting temples across India—not just the famous ones, but small, rural temples too. After Mumbai Indians won the 2017 IPL, he took the trophy to Siddhivinayak Temple in Mumbai to seek Lord Ganesha’s blessings.
He’s an ardent devotee of Lord Ganesha and has been involved in funding restoration projects for temples that have fallen into disrepair.
How Spirituality Shapes His Business Decisions
In interviews, Anant’s mentioned how his spiritual beliefs influence his approach to business. The emphasis on dharma (duty), seva (service), and balance between material success and spiritual growth guides his decisions.
His work in animal welfare, for instance, stems from Hindu teachings about respect for all living beings. His commitment to environmental sustainability aligns with traditional Indian values about living in harmony with nature.
Lifestyle: Cars, Watches, and Real Estate
The Rolls Royce Collection
Anant owns a Rolls Royce Phantom Drop Head Coupe, which starts at around Rs. 8.84 crores (over $1 million). It’s one of the most expensive Rolls Royce models, featuring custom interiors and exclusive modifications.
But he’s not just collecting cars for show. He’s a genuine automobile enthusiast who appreciates engineering and craftsmanship.
That $2.2 Million Watch Everyone’s Talking About
At his pre-wedding event, Mark Zuckerberg and his wife Priscilla Chan noticed Anant wearing a Richard Mille RM 56-02 watch. The price? About $2.2 million (Rs. 18.2 crores excluding taxes).
This particular model is ultra-rare—only a few were ever made. It features a transparent sapphire crystal case and is considered a work of mechanical art.
But that’s not his only luxury timepiece. Anant has an impressive collection that includes pieces from Audemars Piguet and other high-end watchmakers. In fact, he gave luxury watches worth Rs. 2 crores each as return gifts to his groomsmen, including Shah Rukh Khan, Ranveer Singh, and Meezaan.
The Dubai Beach Villa Worth Rs. 640 Crores
As a wedding gift, Mukesh and Nita bought Anant and Radhika a beachside mansion in Palm Jumeirah, Dubai, for about $80 million—Dubai’s biggest residential property deal at the time.
The villa features:
- 10 bedrooms
- 70-meter private beach
- Modern amenities and luxury finishes
- Views of the Arabian Gulf
- Privacy and security systems
It’s their escape from the constant scrutiny they face in India.
Living in Antilia: What It’s Really Like
When in Mumbai, Anant lives in Antilia, the family’s 27-story home. Each floor is designed differently, and the building includes:
- Multiple swimming pools
- A health spa
- An ice cream parlor
- A temple
- A 50-seat movie theater
- Multiple lounges and entertainment areas
But according to people who’ve visited, despite the opulence, the family actually lives quite simply day-to-day. Traditional Gujarati vegetarian food. Regular family dinners. Strong emphasis on values and discipline.
Beyond Business: Hobbies and Interests
Cricket Obsession: Mumbai Indians Superfan
Anant’s a huge cricket fan, especially when it comes to the Mumbai Indians, the IPL team owned by Reliance Industries.
He’s been involved with the team since Reliance bought it in 2008. You’ll often spot him at matches, cheering from the sidelines with his mom and sister. He’s not just a passive owner—he’s genuinely invested in the team’s performance and strategy.
The Encyclopedia of Animals
Multiple sources describe Anant as “a walking encyclopedia on animals.” He’s not just passionate about elephants—he knows detailed information about:
- Animal behavior and psychology
- Wildlife conservation methods
- Veterinary medicine
- Ecological balance and environmental issues
- Endangered species protection strategies
His knowledge isn’t superficial. He’s studied extensively and works with international wildlife experts to improve animal care standards.
Reading Habits Nobody Knows About
Away from the spotlight, Anant’s an avid reader. He’s particularly interested in:
- Business strategy and management
- Environmental science and sustainability
- Indian philosophy and spiritual texts
- Biographies of global leaders and change-makers
Reading’s been a lifelong habit, dating back to his school days.
Staying Out of Social Media
Unlike many heirs to business empires, Anant doesn’t have official Twitter or Instagram accounts. He maintains a deliberately low social media profile.
This isn’t because he’s technologically challenged (he’s involved with Jio, after all). It’s a conscious choice to maintain privacy and avoid the toxicity that comes with being a public figure online.
Net Worth and Wealth
How Much Is He Actually Worth?
This is tricky. Anant’s personal net worth is hard to pin down because most of his wealth is tied up in family holdings.
Estimates vary wildly—some sources suggest anywhere from $200 million to over $1 billion as his personal wealth. But these are mostly guesses.
Separate from Family Wealth or Not?
The Ambani family wealth is estimated at over $100 billion, making them one of the richest families in the world. Anant’s share of that isn’t publicly disclosed.
What we do know:
- He receives compensation as a director of multiple Reliance companies
- He has personal assets like real estate and luxury items
- He’ll eventually inherit a significant portion of the Reliance empire
- His business ventures (like Vantara) are funded through Reliance Foundation
Future Inheritance Plans
Mukesh Ambani’s been clear about succession planning. Unlike some billionaire families where inheritance leads to feuds (remember the Ambani brothers’ split in 2005?), this generation seems organized.
The energy division Anant heads is one of the most valuable parts of Reliance. His future stake in the company will likely be worth tens of billions of dollars.
The Succession Strategy
Mukesh’s approach is smart—divide the empire into distinct divisions (telecom/digital, retail, energy) and put each child in charge of one. This reduces competition and plays to each person’s strengths.
Anant’s focus on energy, especially the pivot to renewables, positions him as a leader in one of the 21st century’s most crucial industries.
Public Image: Humble or Privileged?
What People Who’ve Met Him Say
Accounts from people who’ve interacted with Anant paint an interesting picture. Many describe him as:
- Soft-spoken and polite
- Genuinely interested in conversations (not just going through the motions)
- More reserved than his siblings
- Deeply knowledgeable when discussing topics he’s passionate about
- Unpretentious despite the wealth
One interviewer noted that Anant “comes across as a simple, down-to-earth man with very rich values.”
The Fat-Shaming He Faced
Before his transformation, Anant faced brutal public scrutiny. Social media trolls, casual comments at events, even news articles made cruel observations about his weight.
He’s spoken about how difficult that was, especially as a teenager and young adult. The constant judgment, the assumption that he was just lazy or gluttonous, the invasion of privacy—it all took a toll.
But instead of becoming bitter, he used it as motivation. Not to prove the haters wrong, but to improve his own health and quality of life.
How He Handles Media Attention
Anant’s approach to media is interesting. He doesn’t court attention, but he doesn’t completely hide either.
He gives occasional interviews, usually tied to company events or major life milestones. He’s thoughtful in his responses, doesn’t say anything controversial, and generally maintains a professional demeanor.
Unlike some billionaire heirs who love the spotlight, Anant seems more comfortable working behind the scenes.
Keeping a Low Profile in a High-Profile Family
Compared to Akash and Isha, Anant maintains the lowest public profile. He’s not as active in social events, doesn’t appear in as many promotional campaigns, and generally stays out of the gossip columns (except for his wedding, which was unavoidable).
This seems intentional. He’s focusing on his work—both at Reliance and with Vantara—rather than building a personal brand.
Controversies and Criticism
The Wedding Cost Debate
Anant and Radhika’s wedding sparked intense debate about wealth inequality in India. Critics pointed out:
- The estimated $600 million to $1 billion cost
- How that money could’ve funded education or infrastructure in poorer states
- The lavish display during a time when many Indians struggle financially
- Whether such excess is socially responsible
The defense? It’s their money, they can spend it how they want. The wedding also provided employment for thousands of workers, boosted local economies, and showcased Indian culture globally.
Wealth Inequality Discussions
The Ambani family’s wealth inevitably raises questions about India’s economic divide. The fact that one family has more wealth than the GDP of some small countries while millions of Indians live in poverty is uncomfortable.
Supporters point to Reliance Foundation’s charitable work and the company’s job creation. Critics argue it’s not enough given the scale of wealth concentration.
Anant hasn’t directly addressed these criticisms, but his work in sustainability and animal welfare could be seen as an attempt to use his privilege for positive impact.
Vantara Animal Acquisition Questions
The SIT investigation into Vantara raised concerns about:
- Whether animals were illegally imported
- If proper Wildlife Protection Act procedures were followed
- Alleged mistreatment claims from anonymous sources
Anant’s team has maintained that all animals were acquired legally with proper documentation and approvals. The investigation is ongoing, and no conclusive wrongdoing has been established.
How He Responds to Critics
Anant generally doesn’t engage directly with critics. He takes a “let the work speak for itself” approach.
In a rare comment about criticism, he mentioned that serving the Reliance family and contributing to India’s development is his focus—not public opinion. He’s aware people will always have something to say, but he can’t let that dictate his actions.
The Future: What’s Next for Anant Ambani?
Reliance’s 2035 Carbon Zero Goal
This is Anant’s moonshot project. Reliance aims to become a net-carbon-zero company by 2035—an incredibly ambitious goal for an oil and gas giant.
The plan includes:
- Massive investments in renewable energy
- Transition to green hydrogen production
- Carbon capture and storage technology
- Circular economy initiatives for plastics and materials
- Phasing down traditional fossil fuel dependency
If Anant pulls this off, he’ll transform not just Reliance, but potentially India’s entire energy sector.
His Role in India’s Green Energy Revolution
India’s committed to becoming a global leader in renewable energy. As someone heading the energy division of India’s largest company, Anant’s decisions will have national implications.
He’s positioned to:
- Attract international green energy partnerships
- Drive innovation in clean technology
- Create millions of jobs in the renewable sector
- Reduce India’s carbon footprint significantly
Building a Legacy Beyond His Father
Mukesh Ambani built on Dhirubhai Ambani’s foundation. Now it’s Anant’s turn to create his own chapter.
While his father focused on telecommunications and retail disruption, Anant’s legacy might be:
- Leading India’s energy transition
- Advancing animal welfare and environmental conservation
- Blending traditional values with modern business practices
- Proving that billionaire heirs can be more than just inheritors
What Experts Predict
Industry analysts expect Anant to:
- Take on increasingly senior roles at Reliance over the next decade
- Potentially become chairman/CEO of Reliance New Energy
- Expand Vantara into a global model for animal conservation
- Emerge as a key voice in India’s sustainability discussions
- Maintain a lower public profile than his father but deliver results
FAQs About Anant Ambani
How old is Anant Ambani?
Anant Ambani was born on April 10, 1995, making him 31 years old as of 2026. He’s the youngest of Mukesh and Nita Ambani’s three children.
What disease does Anant Ambani have?
Anant has chronic asthma, which he’s battled since he was two years old. He also has diabetes. The steroid medication used to treat his asthma caused significant weight gain during his childhood and teenage years, leading to obesity that he later overcame through intense diet and exercise.
How did Anant Ambani really lose weight?
Anant lost 108 kilograms in 18 months through an extremely disciplined routine: walking 21 kilometers daily, doing yoga for 90 minutes, weight training, functional training, and high-intensity cardio for a total of 5-6 hours of exercise daily. He followed a zero-sugar, low-carb, high-protein diet. No surgery was involved—it was pure hard work with celebrity trainer Vinod Channa’s guidance.
What is Anant Ambani’s role in Reliance Industries?
Anant heads Reliance’s energy business, making him responsible for oil and gas operations, the Jamnagar refinery complex, and the company’s pivot to renewable energy. He’s also a director on the boards of Jio Platforms Limited, Reliance Retail Ventures Limited, Reliance New Energy Limited, and Reliance New Solar Energy Limited. He joined the main Reliance Industries board as a non-executive director in August 2023.
Who is Radhika Merchant and how did they meet?
Radhika Merchant is the daughter of Viren Merchant, CEO of Encore Healthcare. She’s a classical dancer and marketing professional. She and Anant officially met in 2017 through mutual friends, though their families had known each other for years. They got engaged in December 2022 and married in July 2024 in one of the most expensive weddings in history.
What is Vantara and why did Anant create it?
Vantara is a 3,000-acre animal rescue and rehabilitation center in Jamnagar, Gujarat, created by Anant. He built it to rescue injured, abused, and endangered animals—especially elephants, which he’s been passionate about since childhood. The facility houses over 200 elephants and various other species, providing medical care, rehabilitation, and conservation support. It’s Anant’s personal mission to improve animal welfare standards in India.
How much did Anant Ambani’s wedding cost?
Estimates for Anant and Radhika’s July 2024 wedding range from $600 million to $1 billion, potentially making it one of the most expensive weddings ever. The multi-day celebration included performances by Rihanna and other international artists, 1,200 guests from around the world, elaborate venues, custom fashion from top designers, and extensive logistics including temporary international airport status for Jamnagar.
What is Anant Ambani’s net worth in 2026?
Anant’s exact personal net worth isn’t publicly disclosed. Estimates range from $200 million to over $1 billion in personal assets, separate from his future stake in the Ambani family’s $100+ billion empire. His wealth comes from directorship compensation at various Reliance companies, personal investments, real estate, and luxury assets. As heir to a portion of Reliance Industries, his future inheritance will likely be worth tens of billions of dollars.