Shah Rukh Khan with Gauri Khan, Katrina Kaif with Vicky Kaushal, and Ranbir Kapoor with Alia Bhatt arrived at Jio World Centre in Mumbai to attend the wedding of Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant. The stars chose dazzling ethnic looks for the celebrations.  Shah Rukh Khan and Gauri Khan arrived at Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant's wedding and posed for the paparazzi. SRK looked dapper in a mint green bandhgala sherwani jacket, grey-coloured kurta, matching dhoti pants, dress shoes, a polki necklace, and sunglasses. Meanwhile, Gauri complemented him in a golden anarkali suit set featuring a sequin embellished kurta and flared pants. She accessorised the look with a potli bag, a diamond necklace, jhumkis, and high heels. Alia Bhatt stole the show at Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant's wedding in a Rani pink silk saree adorned with gold brocade embroidery. She wore the nine yards of grace with an embellished strapless blouse, a gold and emerald choker, jhumkis, a mang tika, a potli bag, and a centre-parted bun adorned with rose gajra. Meanwhile, Ranbir complemented his wife in a cream brocade sherwani jacket, matching kurta, flared pants, and dress shoes. Katrina Kaif and Vicky Kaushal wore traditional ensembles to attend Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant's wedding ceremony today. Katrina, rumoured to be pregnant, wore a red saree featuring gold Resham embroidery, sequin embellishments, and scalloped gota borders. She styled the ensemble with a matching full-sleeve blouse, a luxurious necklace, jhumkis, centre-parted loose tresses, kohl-lined eyes, rouge-tinted cheeks, and a nude lip shade. Meanwhile, Vicky wore a floral cream sherwani styled with an embroidered dupatta. Source: HT  

Anant Ambani, the son of India's richest man, ties the knot with his partner Radhika Merchant. Justin Bieber, Priyanka Chopra, and former Swedish Prime Minister Carl Bildt were among those attending the grand wedding. Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant married Friday in a ceremony that has seen A-list stars fly into Mumbai for a grand weekend of celebrations. Anant is the son of Mukesh Ambani, who is India's richest man. He tied the knot with his longtime girlfriend, Radhika Merchant, the daughter of pharmaceutical magnate Viren Merchant. While the couple married in a traditional Hindu ceremony on Friday, it was the attendees in the room that drew media attention like no other wedding this year.  Social media platforms saw Kim Kardashian and Justin Bieber, and Hollywood wrestler John Cena join in on the fun. As did a host of political figures, like former British Prime Ministers Boris Johnson and Tony Blair, former US Secretary of State John Kerry, former Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper, and former Swedish Prime Minister Carl Bildt.  Among business leaders, Aramco CEO Amin Nasser, Samsung Electronics Chairman Jay Lee, FIFA President Gianni Infantino and Lockheed Martin CEO James Taiclet were reportedly also present, according to Indian media outlets. Mukesh Ambani hired 100 planes, including three Falcon-2000 jets, to fly his guests to the party, according to Reuters. Who is Mukesh Ambani? The 67-year-old Mukesh Ambani is the chairman of Reliance Industries, which has interests in petrochemicals, oil and gas, telecom, retail and financial services. With a fortune of over $123 billion (€113 billion), he is ranked as the 11th richest person in the world, according to the Forbes billionaires list. He is also an important ally of India's right-wing Hindu nationalist leader, Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Critics of Ambani said his company has thrived mainly because of political connections during the Congress governments in the 1970s and 80s and later under Modi's rule since 2014. The grand Indian wedding A recent report by Outlook put the estimated cost of the entire wedding celebration at Rs 4,000-5,000 crore (approximately $600 million), which amounts to just 0.5% of the Ambanis' net worth. While Anant's engagement ceremony was a private affair at a temple in the northern state of Rajasthan, it was followed by a string of celebratory events that featured performances by pop stars, including Rihanna and Justin Bieber. In March, Mukesh Ambani threw a pre-wedding bash for the couple in Gujarat, which was attended by nearly 1,200 people from around the world, including tech moguls Bill Gates and Mark Zuckerberg and former US President Donald Trump's daughter Ivanka. Singer Rihanna charged between $8-9 million for her performance at the event, according to some Indian media reports. In May, the Ambanis and their guests jetted off on a four-day luxury cruise in Europe. Early in July, Ambani and his wife Nita hosted a mass wedding for  50 underprivileged couples ahead of their son's wedding.  Last week, Canadian singer Justin Bieber held a performance as part of the latest pre-wedding festivities of the billionaire heir.

For better or for worse, days-long wedding events have become common in cultures around the world. Between Friday night cocktail receptions and sore-headed Sunday brunches, what might once have been a half-day affair can now easily envelop three or four days. But a wedding that spans seven months is an outlier even in the extravagant world of big Indian weddings. On Friday, Anant Ambani the youngest son of Mukesh Ambani, the head of India’s largest private sector corporation, with an estimated net worth of over $122 billion, according to Forbes and pharmaceutical heiress Radhika Merchant will finally be married. The couple have been celebrating their betrothal since January, averaging an event every six weeks. From a star-studded engagement party to performances by the likes of Rihanna and Justin Bieber, no expense has been spared. If you’ve lost track of where the Ambanis are at with their nuptial celebrations, and what lavish bashes have already taken place, read on for a full timeline of what’s expected to be the wedding of the year. December: The engagement On December 29, Anant Ambani kept things low-key as he proposed to Radhika Merchant at a temple in the northern Rajasthan state surrounded by family and close friends. January: The engagement party Merchant took part in a traditional 'mehndi' ceremony on January 18, when her hands and feet were decorated with henna. The following day the pair threw their 'Gol Dhana' engagement party, drawing in some of the biggest names in Bollywood. Actors Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh were among the famous faces in attendance. March: Pre-wedding party Don’t be fooled by the name, this get-together preceded the Ambani’s actual wedding by over four months. Staged in the city of Jamnagar, in the western state of Gujarat, the event (which had a guest list of 1,200 people) featured choreographed Bollywood-style dancing, fireworks and a feast of 500 dishes cooked by around 100 chefs. The evening even saw Rihanna perform for only the second time in six years. The event was a who’s who of the rich and powerful. Tech billionaires Mark Zuckerberg and Bill Gates were there, each dressed in traditional embellished Kashmiri coats while Ivanka Trump and husband Jared Kushner arrived with their daughter. Ahead of the party, the Ambani family also hosted a communal dinner for more than 50,000 villagers outside Jamnagar. May: The European cruise party The Ambanis set off on a four-day European cruise aboard a luxury chartered ship, beginning in the Sicilian city of Palermo and ending in Rome. Despite a strict no-phones policy, leaked social media videos showed on-deck concerts from the Backstreet Boys, Pitbull and David Guetta. There were a few stops on the way, too: A masquerade ball at the Chateau de la Croix des Gardes mansion in Cannes featured a performance by Katy Perry, while an evening event in Portofino on the Italian Riviera saw the main square cordoned off to the public, before Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli performed for guests. July 2-5: Mass wedding and musical night On July 2, the couple staged a mass wedding, also known as 'Samuh Vivah,' in the town of Palghar, around 70 miles from Mumbai. More than 50 underprivileged couples were invited to receive gifts, ranging from gold ornaments to a year’s worth of groceries. A few days later, at the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Center (a Mumbai arts venue founded by Anant's mother, Nita), the Ambanis hosted a traditional night of music and dance, known as the 'sangeet,' which featured a live performance from Justin Bieber. July 8: The Haldi On Monday, the couple took part in a 'haldi' ceremony, a pre-wedding ritual that traditionally sees friends and family bless the marrying couple by applying a turmeric paste to their heads, faces or bodies. The pair appear to have kept the event private, though photographs later shared online showed the couple wearing suitably complementary gold and yellow outfits a bejeweled Merchant in a custom ensemble by celebrated Indian designer Anamika Khanna and the groom in a kurta and jacket by Sandeep Khosla. Friday: Main ceremony The wedding proper is set to commence on Friday at the 16,000 capacity Jio World Convention Center, complete with a red carpet to showcase A-list attendees clad in per the dress code classical Indian attire. The internet is awash with rumors of the performer lineup, from Adele and Drake to Lana Del Rey, but one thing is certain: There will be no expense spared. Saturday: Divine blessings ceremony The day after the nuptials will see one of the last stages of the Hindu wedding schedule: the 'Shubh Ashirwad,' or divine blessings ceremony. Here, the couple seeks 'Ashirwad,' or blessings, from the elders in their community and are usually showered with rose petals or rice when walking down the aisle again. Sunday: The reception The mammoth festivities conclude on Sunday with one final celebration of the couple: the 'Mangal Utsav,' or reception. Guests have been to dress in 'Indian chic.' Saturday and Sunday's events are expected to take place at the Ambani family's 27-story residence, Antilia.   Source: CNN

As the culinary world continues its ever-evolving journey, staying ahead of food trends can be as exciting as it is delicious. The year 2024 is set to bring a smorgasbord of new flavours, health-focused ingredients, and climate-conscious eating habits that will not only tantalise our taste buds but also promote a greater good. From the viral dishes of TikTok to the mindful choices of sustainably sourced foods, there's a shift towards balance; a fusion of indulgence with wellness, and convenience with consciousness.  Let's explore the Food trends in 2024 that are poised to redefine our eating experiences: TikTok Food Trends in 2024  Cottage Cheese The humble cottage cheese is making an impressive comeback as TikTok creators champion its versatility.  No longer just a diet food, it's being reimagined in everything from hearty breakfast bowls to decadent desserts.  Rich in protein and adaptable to savoury and sweet dishes alike, it's the perfect canvas for a range of ingredients.  Trending are 'cottage cheese pancakes' and 'whipped cottage cheese dips', which are not only nutritious but also incredibly Instagram-worthy. As a food that supports muscle maintenance and satiety, cottage cheese is finding its way back into the hearts and fridges of foodies everywhere. Greens Drinks & Powders Greens drinks and powders are stealing the show as the MVPs of quick nutrition.  Their appeal lies in the blend of numerous vegetables and fruits, offering a concentrated dose of vitamins and minerals with minimal effort.  For those short on time, these powerhouse drinks act as a nutrient infusion, perfect for a post-workout boost or a midday pick-me-up.  The increased interest in gut health and immune support is only bolstering their popularity. With a range of options from spirulina to wheatgrass, these greens drinks and powders are making wellness accessible to everyone. Coffee and Greens Imagine starting your day with a blend of two powerhouses: coffee and greens.  This trend caters to those who refuse to choose between their morning jolt of caffeine and the nutritional benefits of greens.  Cafes and homebrew enthusiasts alike are crafting concoctions that combine the rich, bold flavours of coffee with the nutrient-rich profiles of greens powders.  This synergy not just maximises energy but also introduces an easy health boost. As people continue to search for ways to optimise their health without sacrificing their pleasures, coffee infused with greens is set to become a staple. French Yogurt Cake The French Yogurt Cake, with its delightful simplicity, underscores the growing trend of home baking that emphasises both ease and authenticity.  Known for its moist texture and adaptability, it's a recipe that invites experimentation with various fruits, flavours, and flours.  The cake's rustic charm is enhanced by its "use-the-container" measurement technique, which adds to its charm and approachability. Whether it's adding lemon zest for a tang or a dollop of jam for sweetness, this cake encourages personal touches, making it a favourite for both novice bakers and seasoned pros. Lifestyle Food Trends in 2024 Climate-Conscious Foods & Sustainability In 2024, climate-conscious foods are not just a trend; they're a growing movement.  As awareness of our food's environmental impact increases, consumers are demanding more sustainable options.  This trend sees a surge in plant-based diets, locally sourced produce, and minimal-waste cooking. Eateries and brands are responding by highlighting their carbon footprint or using upcycled ingredients. It's now more common to find menus and products that boast eco-friendly credentials, from regenerative agriculture to zero-plastic packaging, highlighting the shared responsibility we hold towards our planet. Girl Dinner You might have seen "Girl Dinner" doing the rounds on TikTok. It's a trend that's all about simplicity and satisfaction when it comes to your evening meal. Forget the traditional entrées and instead, think of a snack board that's just to your liking. A slice of crusty bread, some cheese, a bit of fruit, and a handful of pickles is what you'll typically find on a "Girl Dinner" plate. But here's the kicker: it's entirely what you make of it. Whether it's reaching for those comforting snacks you love, diving into some leftovers for a no-fuss twist, or just assembling a plate of whatever you're in the mood for – that's the essence of a "Girl Dinner." It's a personal feast that's easy to put together and perfect for those nights when you're dining solo or with friends but still want to keep things casual and enjoyable. Island Flavours 2024 is the year of tropical escapism at the dining table. Island flavours, with their exotic and bold profiles, are taking centre stage. Ingredients like jackfruit, coconut, and an array of spicy chillies provide a culinary getaway to island life. This trend is not just about the food but also about the experience, aiming to capture the laid-back and joyful spirit of the islands. Meals are becoming more colourful and vibrant, with a zest that's reminiscent of a beachside feast. Greens Greens continue to enjoy their spot in the limelight as a staple for health-conscious individuals. This trend goes beyond the humble salad; it's about incorporating a variety of greens into every meal.  Kale, spinach, and chard are now joined by microgreens and sea vegetables, offering depth to the category.  Creative recipes that make greens the star of the dish are trending, such as green smoothie bowls, kale pesto, or collard green wraps, demonstrating that greens can be both versatile and delicious. Pasture-Raised Meat and Eggs The conscientious carnivore is on the rise, which is why pasture-raised meats and eggs are carving out a significant place in the market.  This method of farming allows animals to roam freely, resulting in better nutrition and flavour.  It aligns with a more ethical approach to consumption, as it ensures a higher standard of animal welfare.  Consumers are ready to invest in these products as part of a healthier and more responsible lifestyle choice, knowing that what they consume directly impacts not only their health but also the well-being of animals. Ingredient Food Trends 2024 Spirulina This blue-green algae is experiencing its well-deserved moment in the superfood spotlight. Spirulina is being embraced in 2024 for its impressive nutritional profile which includes proteins, vitamins, and minerals while being low in calories.  It's a favourite amongst vegans and health enthusiasts for its plant-based iron and B12 content.  Spirulina is cropping up in everything from smoothies and energy bars to savoury snacks, bringing a vibrant hue that's as visually appealing as it is beneficial for health. Its sustainability as a crop that requires minimal water and land adds to its rising popularity as an eco-friendly nutrient source. Ginger Ginger, the ancient root with a zesty kick, continues to be celebrated for its medicinal properties as well as its culinary versatility.  Recognised for aiding digestion and reducing inflammation, ginger is being incorporated into daily diets in creative ways. You'll find it lending its warm, spicy notes to everything from morning juices and wellness shots to marinades and desserts.  As a natural remedy for common ailments and a beloved flavour enhancer, ginger remains a cornerstone in culinary trends, beloved for both its health benefits and its comforting, familiar taste. Turmeric Turmeric, the golden spice known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, is taking the food and wellness industry by storm.  As people become more proactive about their health, turmeric is being used not just in curries but in lattes, soups, and even breakfast cereals.  Its active compound, curcumin, is credited with numerous health benefits, making turmeric a go-to ingredient for those looking to boost their immune system or support joint health.  Its vibrant colour and earthy flavour make adding a dose of turmeric to meals both a visual and sensory pleasure. Yuzu Fruit Yuzu, a fragrant citrus fruit from East Asia, is capturing the hearts of culinary enthusiasts with its unique and tantalising flavour profile.  This tart and aromatic ingredient is being used to add a refreshing twist to sauces, cocktails, and desserts. Its popularity extends beyond its taste; yuzu is also rich in vitamin C and antioxidants.  With its bright and bold flavour, yuzu adds an exotic touch to dishes and has become a symbol of culinary innovation and fusion cuisine. Antioxidants Antioxidants have become a buzzword for good reason, and their prevalence in diets is only growing.  These powerful compounds, found in a variety of fruits and vegetables, are crucial for fighting oxidative stress and promoting overall health. Foods rich in antioxidants like berries, nuts, and dark chocolate are being highlighted for their anti-aging and disease-preventing potential.  As consumers become more educated on the benefits of antioxidants, they are increasingly sought after in ingredient lists for their ability to nourish the body and combat environmental stressors. Beverage Trends 2024 Green Tea Green tea is blossoming in popularity for its delicate flavour and well-documented health benefits. As a beverage, it's revered for its high antioxidant content and its potential to enhance mental clarity and metabolic rate. In 2024, green tea is being reinvented in various forms – from cold brews and lattes to green tea-infused beverages, expanding its reach beyond traditional hot brews. Its versatility is also celebrated in cocktails and non-alcoholic beverages, offering a touch of sophistication and a health-conscious twist to refreshment. Asian Flavours Asian flavours are taking the beverage industry by storm, with an array of traditional and innovative drinks that intrigue the palate. Ingredients like matcha, yuzu, and lemongrass are being blended into teas, coffees, and cocktails, providing a deliciously distinct taste.  These flavours not only offer a cultural experience but are also frequently associated with health benefits, appealing to consumers who wish to explore diverse taste profiles while maintaining a focus on wellness. Detox Drinks Detox drinks are more than just a fad; they're a reflection of the growing desire for beverages that support a healthy lifestyle.  These drinks often include ingredients like cucumber, lemon, mint, and ginger, known for their cleansing properties. 2024 sees a surge in detox drink options that claim to aid in digestion, boost immunity, and support liver function. They're the perfect accompaniment to a balanced diet, and their appeal lies in the promise of purifying the body while providing hydration. Hydration Hacks Innovative hydration hacks are revolutionizing the way we drink water.  This trend sees the infusion of vitamins, minerals, and electrolytes into water to enhance its hydrating power.  Flavoured hydration sachets, water with added collagen, and alkaline water varieties are just a few examples of how hydration is being taken to the next level.  These hacks not only cater to the health-conscious consumer but also make staying hydrated a more enjoyable and beneficial experience. Supplement Trends in 2024 Aloe Vera Aloe vera is well-known for its soothing properties in skincare, but as a supplement trend in 2024, it's making waves for its internal benefits.  Packed with vitamins, enzymes, and amino acids, aloe vera supplements are sought after for digestive health and immune support.  They're available in various forms, such as capsules, juices, and powders, catering to different preferences and lifestyles. As people become more attentive to gut health and natural remedies, aloe vera's popularity as a gentle, nourishing supplement continues to grow. Ashwagandha Ashwagandha, an adaptogen with ancient roots in Ayurvedic medicine, is increasingly embraced for its ability to help the body manage stress.  This powerful herb is linked to numerous health benefits, including improved mental clarity, energy levels, and overall vitality. As modern life becomes busier and more stressful, ashwagandha supplements in the form of capsules, powders, and teas are becoming essential for those looking to maintain balance and well-being. Vitamin B12 Vitamin B12 is crucial for nerve tissue health, brain function, and the production of red blood cells.  Notably important for vegetarians and vegans who may not get enough from their diet, B12 supplements in 2024 come in various forms, including traditional tablets, sublingual melts, and fortified foods.  With a growing awareness of dietary needs and the importance of this essential vitamin, B12 supplements are a key trend for supporting a healthy lifestyle. Vitamin D As the "sunshine vitamin," Vitamin D continues to be essential, especially with increased indoor lifestyles and in regions with less sun exposure.  Recognised for its role in bone health and immune function, Vitamin D supplements are recommended to help maintain optimum levels throughout the year. Available as drops, tablets, and even in spray forms, Vitamin D supplementation is a simple but effective way to support health, particularly during the darker months. Pre & Probiotics The dynamic duo of prebiotics and probiotics is leading the charge in the supplement world for a thriving gut microbiome.  As research underscores the importance of gut health for overall well-being, including mental health, supplements that combine both prebiotics (to feed beneficial bacteria) and probiotics (to add more of these beneficial bacteria) are becoming increasingly popular.  These supplements support a balanced digestive system and are often credited with promoting better skin health, improved digestion, and even a stronger immune response.