The recent wedding celebrations of Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant were a whirlwind of glamour and extravagance. Yet, amidst the dazzling displays of wealth and celebrity, a heartwarming moment captured the essence of family and long-standing traditions. Shanteri Nayak, the owner of the iconic Cafe Mysore in Matunga, Mumbai, received a special welcome from the Ambani family.
Ambani Family Honours Shanteri Nayak
However or how much ever Rich you are. Culture comes on its Own… Newly Wed Mr Anant Ambani touches feet of WIFE OF LATE NAGESH NAYAK–OWNER OF CAFE MYSORE.😍😍😍 Wishing Both Mr Anath & Mrs Radhika a Very Happy Married Life. pic.twitter.com/HyKaudy7BO
— Moto Port Seena (@motoportseena) July 16, 2024
A video doing the rounds on social media shows Anant Ambani introducing his bride, Radhika Merchant, to Nayak. The Ambani family’s connection to Cafe Mysore goes beyond mere patronage. Anand Piramal and Shloka Mehta greet Nayak with folded hands, while Radhika expresses their deep-rooted appreciation. “We eat your food every Sunday,” she says, thanking Nayak for attending the festivities. Anant joins in the gratitude, and in a gesture of respect, all of them touch Nayak’s feet.
This heartwarming exchange sheds light on a long-standing tradition within the Ambani household. As reported by News18, Mukesh Ambani, Anant’s father, revealed, “We still order idlis and dosas from Mysore Café and go there once a week.” This loyalty stretches back to Mukesh Ambani’s student days at the Institute of Chemical Technology (ICT) in Matunga, where Cafe Mysore became his go-to spot for delicious South Indian fare.
Cafe Mysore’s Legacy
Founded in 1936 by A Rama Nayak, Cafe Mysore is a Mumbai institution. This legacy joint, established by a man who started selling idlis and dosas from scratch, continues to be a beloved destination for authentic South Indian cuisine.
Anant Ambani’s wedding, held on July 12th, was a star-studded affair with celebrities and dignitaries from across the globe in attendance. The following day, the couple hosted a ‘Shubh Aashirwad’ ceremony, welcoming blessings from political heavyweights like Prime Minister Narendra Modi, former President Ram Nath Kovind, and several Chief Ministers.
While the Ambani wedding garnered headlines for its grandeur, the interaction with Nayak serves as a poignant reminder. Even amidst immense wealth and success, the Ambanis cherish their connection to a local eatery that has been a part of their family tradition for generations. This simple act of acknowledging and appreciating a local business highlights the importance of tradition and community, even in the most extraordinary of circumstances.
Cover Image Courtesy: @motoportseena/X (Formerly, Twitter)
For more such snackable content, interesting discoveries and the latest updates on food, travel and experiences in your city, download the Curly Tales App. Download HERE.