Cinema VinesOn the evening of Ganesh Chaturthi, Radhika Merchant, the wife of Anant Ambani, returned to the stage for a traditional Bharatanatyam performance at the family’s Mumbai residence, Antilia. The event, held on the festival’s day, drew a constellation of Bollywood celebrities, including Salman Khan, Katrina Kaif, Ranbir Kapoor, Kareena Kapoor, Saif Ali Khan, Karisma Kapoor and Kiara Advani, among others.
The choreography was crafted by Bollywood dance director Vaibhavi Merchant, who later shared an Instagram tribute to Radhika’s performance. In the post, Vaibhavi highlighted that Radhika had previously expressed a desire to “get back to dancing” during a conversation at Stoke Park, the 300‑acre estate in Buckinghamshire that Mukesh Ambani purchased for $79 million in 2023. Vaibhavi wrote, “What an absolute joy this has been to choreograph you. From your gentle request at Stoke Park where you expressed how keen you were to get back to dancing!!! What better day than Ganesh Chaturthi to embark on this Auspicious journey towards the performing art.”
Radhika’s dance roots run deep. She trained in Bharatanatyam for more than eight years under Guru Bhavana Thakar at Shree Nibha Arts, culminating in an Arangetram in June 2022. Two years later, her wedding to Anant Ambani—a star‑studded, multi‑day affair spanning several countries—brought her back into the spotlight, and she again graced the stage during the 2024 celebrations.
Vaibhavi Merchant praised Radhika’s dedication, noting, “Your passion for dance is truly admirable & your discipline praise worthy!!! God Bless you my darling.” The performance, set against the backdrop of Antilia’s grand interiors, underscored Radhika’s commitment to preserving and sharing her cultural heritage while celebrating a major Hindu festival with family and friends.
