Radhika Merchant's Durga-Inspired Lehenga Shines At 'Mameru' Ceremony

Radhika Merchant graced her 'mameru' ceremony on July 3 in a striking bandhini lehenga in a elegant display of fashionably traditional. This pre-wedding ritual, a integral part of Gujarati weddings, marked the beginning of the festivities for Radhika and Anant Ambani.

Radhika's Bandhani lehenga

The highlight of Radhika’s complete look was her rani pink lehenga, designed by Manish Malhotra, featuring real gold zari borders. The lehenga displayed nine avatars of Goddess Durga, with holy shlokas intricately embroidered in gold taar zardosi along its borders.

Crafted from 35 meters of bandhej, the ghagra was a masterpiece of Rai bandhej, a traditional tie-dye technique, applied on Banarasi brocade. The ensemble beautifully bridged tradition and celebration, exuding deep-rooted sense of culture. Complementing the lehenga was a vintage koti blouse adorned with detailed metallic threadwork and Swarovski tassels.

Radhika completed her look with heirloom gold jewelry that her mother wore at her own 'mameru' ceremony. The stunning pieces included earrings, a necklace, maang-teeka, bangles, and an exquisite hair accessory that adorned her braid, adding a touch of familial legacy to her outfit.

Mameru ceremony at Antilia

The 'mameru' ceremony took place at the Ambani residence in Mumbai, symbolizing the blessings and well-wishes bestowed upon the couple by the groom's maternal family. This ceremony also included the traditional presentation of ‘mameru’ – a set of gifts offered by the groom’s maternal uncles and family.

Prior to this, an intimate puja ceremony was held at the Ambanis’ residence, Antilia, on June 29, setting a spiritual tone for the upcoming celebrations.

Radhika Merchant and Anant Ambani are set to marry on July 12 at the Jio World Convention Centre in Mumbai. Their wedding festivities will span three days, featuring the 'Shubh Vivaah' ceremony, followed by 'Shubh Aashirwad' on July 13, and culminating in the 'Mangal Utsav' or wedding reception on July 14.