During the lavish Ambani wedding festivities of 2024, which marked the union of Anant Ambani (the youngest son of Indian tycoon Mukesh Ambani) to long-time girlfriend Radhika Merchant, jewellery took centre stage as guests were draped with some of the most breathtaking gems on show.
At a pre-wedding party, singer Rihanna performed wearing a pair of diamond and ruby paisley motif earrings. During a blessing ceremony, Bollywood actress Alia Bhatt stepped out in a striking statement polki (uncut diamonds) necklace set in gold, adorned with precious gemstones.
Both stars were dressed by Birdhichand Ghanshyamdas, one of India’s most storied and prestigious jewellery houses, known for its opulent bridal and high jewellery creations. At the helm of the brand’s creative direction is Yash Agarwal, a fourth-generation member of the Birdhichand family.
Agarwal describes his designs as “bold” and “artistic”. “We have taken traditional Indian forms and motifs and translated them into a modern and contemporary style, making them easier for the women of today to wear,” Agarwal said of his design philosophy. “This evolution is not my work alone; it’s a continuation of what my predecessors have done. Together, we have become the preservers of Indian culture and art,” he continued.
JEWELS OF JAIPUR
Based in Jaipur, Birdhichand Ghanshyamdas has a history dating back nearly a century. It was established in 1930 by Agarwal’s great-grandfather. “He was working with the royal family of Jaipur as the treasurer for the state jewels,” shared Agarwal.
When Maharaja Madho Singh II had an infant daughter, Agarwal’s great-grandfather was tasked with travelling around the world to curate gemstones and jewellery for the princess, ensuring a collection fit for her until her marriage. After leaving his post, he founded the business. “...