In a remarkable gesture, Mukesh Ambani, the head of Asia’s wealthiest family, has opened the doors of his ancestral house to the public. Situated in the quaint village of Chorwad, Gujarat, this historic property has been transformed into a memorial known as ‘The Dhirubhai Ambani Memorial House,’ honoring the legacy of Ambani’s late father.
While the Ambani family currently resides in the opulent Antilla, a magnificent 27-floor residence in Mumbai, their roots trace back to Chorwad, a picturesque coastal village nestled in the Junagadh district of Gujarat. This ancestral home, aged over a century, holds immense sentimental value for the Ambanis and had been partially rented by them in the early 1900s before they eventually acquired it in 2002.
This grand two-story mansion is where Dhirubhai Ambani, the visionary founder of Reliance Industries, was born. To preserve the heritage of this cherished property, it underwent a transformation in 2011, emerging as a memorial that pays homage to the remarkable life and achievements of Dhirubhai Ambani.
The Ambani ancestral house, spread across 1.2 acres of verdant land and known as Mangarolvalano Delo, captivates visitors with its timeless allure. Despite undergoing renovations costing between 4 and 5 crore, the original architectural essence has been meticulously maintained. The interiors have been thoughtfully recreated, adorned with brass-copper utensils, wooden furniture, and various artefacts that reflect the family’s rich cultural heritage.
The exquisite gardens surrounding the mansion are divided into three sections: a public area, a private coconut palm grove, and another secluded courtyard reserved for the family’s personal use. Standing tall are the monumental doors and windows, while the structure’s elevation proudly showcases its historical significance – testaments to its enduring legacy.
Inside, a small theatre has been installed, where a captivating film showcasing Dhirubhai Ambani’s extraordinary life is screened, allowing visitors to gain insight into his remarkable journey.
The Dhirubhai Ambani Memorial House was inaugurated in 2011, with the entire Ambani family gracing the occasion. Divided into two sections, one of which is accessible to the public, this memorial welcomes visitors from Tuesday to Sunday, between 9:30 am and 5:00 pm. For a nominal fee of Rs 2, visitors can immerse themselves in the inspiring story of Dhirubhai Ambani and gain a deeper understanding of the family’s profound impact on Indian business and society.
Chorwad has always held a special place in the hearts of the Ambanis, with Dhirubhai frequently returning to his roots even after establishing a colossal business empire in Mumbai. In addition to maintaining their ancestral home, the Ambani family has contributed to the village’s development by constructing gardens, two schools, and a hospital. Their philanthropic efforts have played a crucial role in improving the local infrastructure and uplifting the community.
The opening of the Dhirubhai Ambani Memorial House symbolizes Mukesh Ambani’s commitment to honoring his family’s legacy and sharing it with the world. Through this gesture, visitors have the opportunity to step back in time and witness the humble beginnings that shaped the Ambanis into the influential and iconic figures they are today.
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