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John Cena, Kim Kardashian, and Khloe Kardashian Among Glamorous Guests at Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant’s Lavish Wedding Ceremony in Mumbai

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The wedding of Anant Ambani, son of India’s richest man Mukesh Ambani, and Radhika Merchant, daughter of a wealthy pharmaceutical mogul, is set to be one of the most extravagant events of the year. The couple will tie the knot in a traditional Hindu ceremony at the JIO World Convention Center in Mumbai later this afternoon.

Arriving in an opulently designed jacket, believed to be called a Nehru, crisp white trousers, and trainers featuring an extravagant gold logo, the groom, Anant Ambani, posed for photos with his proud parents, Mukesh and Nita Ambani. The managing director of Reliance Industries and the chairperson of the Reliance Foundation were beaming with pride as they stood alongside their son.

The Ambani family and a host of Bollywood stars were among the first guests photographed on the lavish pink carpet, which featured lush silver panels, cream-colored walls, stunning candle arrangements, and fresh flower bouquets. Workers were seen meticulously cleaning the area in preparation for the VVIP guests.

Security for the event is tight, as highlighted by magician and Britain’s Got Talent contestant Lewis Fuller, who performed at Akash Ambani’s wedding in 2019. Fuller recounted his experience of having a security escort assigned to him 24/7, emphasizing the high level of security at Ambani family events.

John Cena donned a sky blue jacket with a grey floral pattern

The guest list for this three-day celebration includes international stars like John Cena, Kim Kardashian, Khloe Kardashian, and other industry titans such as Mark Zuckerberg, Ivanka Trump, Bill Gates, and David and Victoria Beckham. Bollywood stars, pop stars, and leading politicians are also in attendance. Justin Bieber performed at a pre-wedding party known as a ‘Sangeet,’ reportedly earning £7 million for his performance. Sources suggest that Adele, Drake, or Lana Del Rey will entertain guests at a reception on Sunday evening.

Nick Jonas and Priyanka Chopra arrive for the wedding in glamorous ensembles  

This weekend’s dazzling events are the culmination of four months of festivities, estimated to have cost a combined £250 million. Mr. Ambani, 67, listed by Forbes as the world’s ninth richest man with a net worth of £100 billion, has spared no expense for his youngest son’s wedding. The couple has been gifted a £62 million luxurious villa on Palm Jumeirah in Dubai, a £500,000 Bentley Continental GTC Speed, and a dazzling array of custom-made jewelry and clothes worth millions.

Nita Ambani, 60, gifted her daughter-in-law a stunning pearl and diamond choker worth an estimated £10 million, one of dozens of bespoke multi-million-pound pieces made for her. Anant received a £2 million Cartier brooch. Specialist weavers in India have spent months creating rare silk sarees using gold and silver thread, each valued at over £100,000.

Global President of Huda Beauty, Mona Kattan, and her husband Hassan Elamin were also invited to the wedding 

The Ambanis have reportedly booked 100 private jets to fly their illustrious guests to India and reserved all five-star hotels in Mumbai for their stay, which is being paid for by the family. Insiders estimate that the total cost of the wedding, including travel arrangements, hotels, gifts, clothing, food, and entertainment, could approach a stunning £500 million.

The traditional marriage ceremony will commence at 3 PM India time with a ‘baraat,’ a procession featuring the groom and his family and friends, dancing and accompanied by live musicians. The couple will be wed at the JIO World Convention Center, a sprawling cultural and business hub built by the Ambani family. The ceremony will be conducted by Hindu priests chanting ancient Sanskrit verses, and the couple will take seven vows around a sacred fire to solemnize their marriage.

Kim and Khloe Kardashian have been spotted joining in with the wedding celebrations, with the sisters looking stunning in white and nude ensembles and bindis on their foreheads

An estimated 5,000 people are expected to attend, with all roads around the venue closed to non-wedding traffic. Office workers in Mumbai have been instructed to work from home due to the large number of VIP convoys. The weekend also includes a traditional ‘divine blessings ceremony’ and a glitzy reception on Sunday.

Invitations were sent out in an ornate red box containing a model silver temple, gifts, and a handcrafted pashmina shawl, each costing around £7,000. Guests will receive gift boxes containing opulent items, including Louis Vuitton bags, gold necklaces, and luxurious nightwear.

Bollywood actor Sara Ali Khan poses with her brother Ibrahim Ali Khan at the wedding of billionaire Mukesh Ambani’s Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant in Mumbai

In the lead-up to the wedding, numerous events were held at Antilia, the Ambani’s 27-storey family home in Mumbai, which cost £800 million to build. This property, listed in the Guinness Book of Records as the world’s largest and costliest private residence, features a health club, ballroom, swimming pool, 50-seater cinema, three helipads, and parking for 168 cars.

Anant and Radhika will reside at Antilia, following the Indian tradition of newlyweds living with the groom’s family. Radhika works for her father’s pharmaceutical company, while Anant is a director on the boards of several Reliance Industries companies. Both studied in the US and began dating in 2017.

Mr. Ambani, chairman of Reliance Industries, threw a similarly extravagant wedding for his daughter Isha in 2018, which cost a reported £80 million and featured performances by Beyoncé and receptions in Italy’s Lake Como, Mumbai, and Rajasthan.

Serena Williams Hosts the ESPYs and Throws Shade at Harrison Butker for Saying Women Should be Homemakers

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Serena Williams took the stage as the host of the ESPYs and made headlines with her pointed remarks. While addressing the audience, Serena took a subtle swipe at NFL kicker Harrison Butker.

Earlier in the evening, Butker was photographed arriving in a suit and bow tie at the awards show. It’s unclear how Butker reacted to Serena’s comment. The kicker recently faced backlash after giving the commencement speech at Benedictine College in Kansas, where he encouraged female graduates to become homemakers who raise children. This speech sparked national controversy, particularly among professional women.

While on stage, Serena’s sister, Venus Williams, addressed the crowd with a powerful statement: “So, go ahead and enjoy women’s sports like you would any other sports, because they are sports.”

Serena, who brought her charisma to the event, also delivered a humorous monologue about WNBA phenom Caitlin Clark at another point in the show. She joked, “You are the Larry Bird in that you are an amazing player, you have ties to Indiana, and white people are really crazy about you.”

Opta Supercomputer Predicts Winner of Euro 2024: Spain vs. England in Berlin Showdown

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The Euro 2024 final is set, with Spain and England facing off at the Olympiastadion in Berlin on Sunday night after two thrilling semi-final encounters. As anticipation builds for this high-stakes match, predictions about the outcome are flooding in, with Opta’s supercomputer offering a fascinating forecast.

At the beginning of the tournament, England was picked out as the favorites to win, with Opta giving them a 19.9% chance of securing the title. Despite a somewhat stolid performance during the group stages, Gareth Southgate’s team has proven its mettle in the knockout rounds. Their resilient gameplay and tactical adaptability have validated the pre-competition predictions, demonstrating they possess the qualities needed for success.

Spain’s Journey to the Final

Spain, known as La Roja, has impressed fans and analysts alike with their fluid attacking style and robust defense. Their journey to the final has been marked by standout performances, particularly their come-from-behind victory against France, where they overcame the formidable Kylian Mbappe. Spain’s ability to maintain possession and create scoring opportunities has been a key factor in their success.

England’s Road to Berlin

England’s path to the final has been characterized by determination and strategic prowess. After securing their place in the knockout rounds, they faced tough challenges, including a dramatic win over Italy in the semi-finals, thanks to a memorable goal from substitute Ollie Watkins. England’s disciplined approach and depth in squad options have been crucial in their progress.

Opta Supercomputer’s Prediction

According to Opta’s supercomputer, the final will be closely contested, but England holds a slight edge. The prediction model factors in various performance metrics, including past results, player statistics, and tactical formations. While Spain’s tactical ingenuity and offensive capabilities are significant, England’s robust defense and strategic play give them a marginal advantage.

Key Factors and Player Insights

Spain: Key players like Sergio Busquets and Ferran Torres are expected to play pivotal roles. Spain’s ability to dominate possession and exploit defensive gaps will be crucial.

England: The performance of Harry Kane and Raheem Sterling will be vital. England’s defensive solidity and set-piece proficiency could be decisive factors in the match.

Expert Opinions

Football experts are divided on the prediction, noting that while statistical models provide valuable insights, the unpredictable nature of football means that anything can happen on the day. Tactical decisions by coaches Luis Enrique and Gareth Southgate, along with in-game adjustments, will play significant roles in determining the final outcome.

The Euro 2024 final promises to be an enthralling contest between two footballing giants. With Spain seeking to add a fourth Euro Championship title to their collection and England aiming to end a 58-year trophy drought, fans worldwide are eagerly awaiting the showdown in Berlin. While Opta’s supercomputer gives England a slight edge, the dynamic nature of football ensures that the match will be a must-watch event.

Source: 90min.com

Nine Bodies, including 8 Women, Discovered at Dumpsite in Nairobi’s Mukuru Slums, in Kenya Sparking Fears and Investigations

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In a disturbing development that has sent shockwaves through Nairobi’s Mukuru slums, in Kenya, nine human bodies were discovered at a local dumpsite on Friday, July 12. The grim find has sparked fears, raised questions about recent disappearances, and prompted an immediate police investigation.

The bodies retrieved from dumpsite in Kware, Nairobi county on July 12, 2024
Image: HANDOUT

The bodies, eight of which were identified as female, were found wrapped in sacks at a dumping site near Kware Police Station. Authorities reported that some of the bodies appeared fresh, while others showed signs of decomposition. Witnesses and police noted that several of the victims had burn marks, suggesting they may have been killed elsewhere before being dumped at the site.

Local youths made the initial discovery around midday, alerting authorities who then assisted in retrieving the bodies and transporting them to the mortuary for identification and autopsy. Nairobi police chief Adamson Bungei confirmed that an investigation into the apparent murders is underway.

Residents mill at the dumpsite where the bodies were retrieved from on July 12, 2024
Image: HANDOUT

The expansive nature of the dumpsite and the lingering odor have led to concerns that more bodies may be discovered as the investigation progresses. This fear has intensified the shock and unease among local residents.

This gruesome discovery comes amid growing concerns over recent disappearances following last month’s anti-tax protests across Kenya. Some individuals reported missing have been found deceased in mortuaries, while others remain unaccounted for, leaving families in distress.

Various government agencies are now involved in investigating both the dumpsite bodies and the broader issue of disappearances. The situation has raised questions about urban crime, public safety, and the potential connection to recent political unrest.

Kenyan President Ruto.

As the community grapples with this shocking event, authorities face the challenging task of identifying the victims, determining the cause and circumstances of their deaths, and investigating any possible links to broader patterns of violence or disappearances in the area.

This incident highlights the complex issues of urban crime, waste management, and social inequality that often intersect in Nairobi’s informal settlements. It also underscores the need for enhanced security measures and thorough investigations to ensure the safety of vulnerable communities.

As the investigation unfolds, residents of Mukuru and the wider Nairobi community await answers, hoping for justice for the victims and measures to prevent such horrific incidents in the future.

Prize Money Distribution for 2024 European Championship Final, See Who Gets What

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The 2024 European Championship final, set to take place at the Olympiastadion in Berlin, Germany on Sunday, July 14, will see England and Spain compete for the coveted title.

The tournament, which kicked off on June 14, has featured 51 matches, including 36 in the group stage and 15 in the knockout rounds.

In December 2023, the UEFA Executive Committee approved the prize money distribution system for the teams participating in the tournament. The prize pool for the 2024 European Championship is set at the same level as UEFA EURO 2020, totaling €331 million.

The distribution key for the prize money, as outlined on UEFA’s website, is structured as follows:

– Participating fee: €9.25 million

– Match bonus: €1.0 million for a win and €500,000 for a draw

– Qualification to the round of 16: €1.5 million

– Qualification to the quarter-finals: €2.5 million

– Qualification to the semi-finals: €4 million

– The runners-up will receive an additional payment of €5 million

– The 2024 European champions will receive an extra payment of €8 million

The champion team has the potential to earn a maximum of €28.25 million if they win all three of their group matches.

On Monday, UEFA disclosed that the tournament’s revenue is generated from media rights, global sponsorships, ticketing, hospitality, and licensing. This comprehensive revenue model ensures substantial financial rewards for the participating teams, reflecting the global popularity and commercial success of the European Championship.

Both England and Spain are set to compete fiercely not only for the prestigious title but also for the significant financial incentives associated with winning the championship. England hopes to end their 58-year trophy drought, while Spain aims to secure their fourth Euro Championship title.

Leadership.ng

Nigerian Afrobeats Star Rema to Perform “Calm Down” at Lavish Wedding of Asia’s Richest Man’s Son

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Nigerian Afrobeats star Divine Ikubor, popularly known as Rema, has arrived in India to perform at the wedding of Anant Ambani, the son of Asia’s richest man, Mukesh Ambani, and Radhika Merchant, daughter of pharma tycoons Viren and Shaila Merchant.

The ‘Calm Down’ crooner shared his excitement on Thursday by posting a video on Instagram of himself walking towards a private chartered plane, dressed in an all-black outfit. The video was set to the background music of ‘Azaman,’ a track from his recently released sophomore album, ‘He Is,’ and accompanied by an emoji of the Indian tricolor flag.

According to the Hindustan Times, Rema is commanding a fee of $3 million to perform his global hit song ‘Calm Down’ at the event. He is set to perform alongside Canadian singer Justin Bieber, who has reportedly been paid $10 million for his performance. Additionally, pop icon Rihanna graced the event with a performance for an undisclosed fee.

Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant are scheduled to tie the knot on Friday, July 12, at the Jio World Centre in Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC) in Mumbai. This grand wedding is the culmination of a series of lavish celebrations hosted by the Ambani family since March, marking yet another high-profile event in the Indian social calendar.

The four-day wedding extravaganza in Mumbai promises to be a star-studded affair, drawing celebrities from around the globe. It follows a series of pre-wedding festivities that have already seen appearances by numerous international stars.

Rema’s involvement in the wedding highlights the global appeal of Afrobeats and its rising prominence in international events. The Ambani family’s choice of such high-caliber performers underscores the opulence and grandeur associated with their celebrations.

Collapse of Two-Storey School Building in Plateau State, Nigeria Leaves Many Students and Teachers Feared Dead

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A two-storey school building in Plateau State, Nigeria has tragically collapsed, leaving numerous students and teachers trapped, with many feared dead. The devastating incident occurred at Saint Academy, located in the Busa Buji community within the Jos North Local Government Area, early Friday morning around 8:30 am. At the time of the collapse, many students and teachers were already in their classes.

The news of the building collapse has shocked the community. Distraught residents and anxious parents, whose children were inside the school, rushed to the site to ascertain the fate of their loved ones. The scene was filled with heart-wrenching cries and visible distress as they awaited news.

Our correspondent visited the school shortly after the incident. Many residents were seen wailing, while security personnel and emergency workers were tirelessly working to pull survivors from the rubble. The rescue operations were intense, with everyone hoping for miracles amidst the chaos.

The collapse of the Saint Academy building has raised concerns about the structural integrity of school buildings in the region. Authorities are expected to launch an investigation to determine the cause of the collapse and to prevent such tragedies in the future.

Source: Punchng

Niger’s Interior Ministry Issues Alert After Militants Escape High-Security Koutoukale Prison

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Niger’s interior ministry has announced that search units are on high alert following an escape of militants in jail from the high-security Koutoukale prison on Thursday, July 11. This prison is known for housing Islamist militants.

The ministry did not provide specific details on the number of prisoners who escaped or the methods they used to do so. Koutoukale prison is situated 50 kilometers northwest of Niamey, the capital of Niger. Notably, there were unsuccessful breakout attempts at this facility in 2016 and 2019.

Koutoukale prison holds detainees involved in Niger’s conflicts with armed groups linked to al-Qaida and the Islamic State, as well as suspected Boko Haram insurgents.

In response to the escape, local authorities have imposed an overnight curfew in Tillaberi, the urban commune in the same region as the prison. No further details have been provided at this time.

Niger and its neighboring countries in the central Sahel region are at the forefront of battling a growing jihadist threat. This threat has been escalating since 2012 when al-Qaida-linked fighters first seized parts of Mali.

The insurgencies have led to thousands of deaths and the displacement of over 3 million people, creating a severe humanitarian crisis in some of the world’s poorest countries.

Africannews.com

Major Drug Bust in South Africa: R5 Million Worth of Narcotics Seized, 45-Year-Old Suspect Arrested

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The police in Limpopo, South Africa, have arrested a 45-year-old suspect and seized narcotics with an estimated street value of R5 million. The operation, conducted on July 10, 2024, took place in the Lebowakgomo policing area outside Polokwane, showcasing the South African Police Service’s commitment to combating drug-related crimes.

Acting on a tip-off, members of the Provincial Flying Squad cornered the suspect near a major fast food outlet at a shopping centre in Lebowakgomo. The suspect, found sitting in a Toyota Hilux bakkie, was searched and initially found in possession of three sachets of crystal meth. Further investigation of the vehicle revealed 300 sachets of heroin (nyaope) and 80 sachets of cocaine hidden in various locations.

The operation extended to a raid on the suspect’s property in Maralaleng village, where additional drugs and over R30,000 in cash, believed to be proceeds from drug dealing, were discovered. The thorough investigation also led to the recovery of an illegal firearm with three live rounds of ammunition. The suspect’s vehicle was confiscated as part of the ongoing investigation.

Preliminary findings suggest that the suspect’s activities extended to selling drugs to school children across various educational institutions, adding a particularly troubling dimension to the case. It was also revealed that the suspect has a similar pending case before the Mankweng Regional Court.

Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, the Provincial Commissioner of SAPS in Limpopo, praised the officers involved for their meticulous investigation and swift action. She emphasized the operation’s significance in the ongoing fight against drug-related crimes and the protection of children from drug traffickers.

The suspect is scheduled to appear before the Thabamoopo Magistrate’s Court on July 12, 2024, facing charges of possession and dealing in drugs, as well as unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition.

This successful operation underscores the importance of community cooperation in combating drug trafficking. The South African Police Service encourages citizens to report any information related to drug activities through the SAPS Crime Stop number or the MySAPS App, emphasizing that such reports can be made anonymously.

As law enforcement continues its efforts to eradicate drug-related crimes, this case serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by communities and the critical role of both police action and public vigilance in addressing the pervasive issue of drug trafficking in South Africa.

Source: mdntvlive.com

JLo & Ben Affleck Publicly List Beverly Hills Mansion for $68 Million

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Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck have made headlines by publicly listing their extravagant Beverly Hills mansion for a staggering $68 million. This luxurious 38,000 square foot property boasts extensive improvements and renovations carried out over the past four months, making it one of the most desirable estates on the market.

Initially, JLo and Ben attempted to sell the mansion discreetly, opting for an off-market approach to attract potential buyers. However, these efforts did not yield the desired results, prompting the couple to go public with the sale of their grand estate.

The journey to acquiring this dream home was a long and meticulous one for the power couple. They spent over two years searching for the perfect residence before finally settling on this Beverly Hills mansion in 2023. The purchase price was just over $60 million, reflecting the property’s prime location and opulent features. Despite the significant investment, the couple decided to further enhance the mansion, pouring substantial funds into renovations to elevate its luxury.

However, the financial landscape of Los Angeles, including the city’s hefty mansion tax, has made it unlikely that JLo and Ben will make a significant profit from the sale. The renovations, combined with the tax implications, mean that recouping their investment might be a challenge.

Beyond the financial aspects, the couple’s personal life has also been under scrutiny. Reports of marital issues between Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck have been circulating for months. In May, it was revealed that the couple was no longer residing together, fueling speculation about the state of their relationship. While Jennifer has been enjoying a getaway in Italy with her friends, Ben has remained in Los Angeles. He is currently living in a rental home in Brentwood, further indicating a physical separation between the two.

The decision to list the mansion publicly may also be influenced by their current living arrangements and the desire to move forward amidst their reported marital struggles. The property is now represented by Santiago Arana of The Agency, a well-known real estate firm specializing in high-end properties.

The Beverly Hills mansion itself is a testament to luxury and opulence. It features multiple bedrooms and bathrooms, expansive living spaces, a state-of-the-art kitchen, and numerous amenities designed for comfort and entertainment. The outdoor area includes beautifully landscaped gardens, a large swimming pool, and various recreational facilities, making it an ideal retreat for relaxation and social gatherings.

The sale of this property marks a significant chapter in the lives of Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck. As the public watches closely, the outcome of this high-profile real estate transaction will undoubtedly be of great interest to fans and real estate enthusiasts alike.

Source:TMZ