Anant Ambani Kalgi: Anant Ambani wore Mughal emperor Shah Jahan’s kalgi as bazuband at his grand wedding |

Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant‘s wedding has been a focal point of discussion for quite some time. Following two grand pre-wedding ceremonies and a week filled with traditional rituals, the couple has embarked on their lifelong journey together. Throughout these festivities, the Ambani family showcased exceptional fashion and an impressive jewellery collection, which captivated everyone with its dazzling display of precious gemstones and rare pieces.

The Ambanis have always been known for their strong family values and the ‘sharing is caring’ philosophy, which adds a unique charm to their celebrations. A particularly heartwarming example of this was when Anant Ambani chose to wear a significant piece of his mother, Nita Ambani’s jewellery for his wedding. Anant adorned a bazuband that was originally Mughal emperor Shah Jahan’s kalgi. This exquisite piece, crafted from antique spinel, ruby, and diamonds, is reportedly valued at Rs. 200 crore.

In May 2024, Nita Ambani attended the Miss World pageant in Mumbai, where she received the ‘Beauty with Purpose Humanitarian Award’ for her philanthropic contributions. On this occasion, Nita was elegantly dressed in a black Banarasi sari, embellished with intricate gold and zari designs. She paired the sari with a matching blouse and opted for a subtle makeup look, complemented by open hair and a black bindi. Her ensemble was completed with classy earrings and a kada, but the highlight was the kalgi, which she wore as a bazuband, elevating her entire look.
A kalgi is traditionally a headpiece attached to a turban to enhance its regal appearance. This accessory has deep historical roots in the Mughal Empire and symbolizes honor, dignity, and royal elegance. The kalgi that Anant wore is particularly noteworthy. According to Topophilia, a popular page on Instagram, it measures 13.7 cm in height and 19.8 cm in width and is adorned with precious gemstones, including ruby, spinel, and diamonds.

The intricate design of the kalgi features the Pachhikakaam technique, a method adopted by Indian jewelers from the European claw setting style. This technique involves preparing metal claws to securely hold the diamonds. Reports indicate that this luxurious head ornament, with its origins in the Mughal Empire, was auctioned at Christie’s Maharajas in 2019. The transformation of Nita Ambani’s bazuband into a ‘something borrowed’ item for Anant on his wedding day is a beautiful testament to family heritage and the passing down of treasured heirlooms.
Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant’s wedding was not just a celebration of their union but also a showcase of the Ambani family’s impeccable taste and deep-rooted traditions. The fusion of contemporary fashion with historical and cultural elements made the events truly unforgettable.