The Ambani family is regarded as one of the most powerful and wealthy families both in India and across the world. The visionary leadership of Dhirubhai Ambani has guided their entrepreneurial path, which has had a significant influence on a number of economic sectors.
However, not many people know that the Ambani family’s history began in the Gujarati hamlet of Chorwad. This is the place where Dhirubhai Ambani was born. Later, Dhirubhai relocated to Bombay and began his entrepreneurial path by founding Reliance Industries in 1966.
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Currently, the Ambani family’s successful branch, led by Mukesh Ambani, is leading Dhirubhai’s legacy with much more enthusiasm. Given their extravagant lifestyle, they reside in the extravagant Antillia, a 27-story architectural marvel in Mumbai.
However, despite living in Mumbai for a long time, the Ambanis still didn’t leave Chorwad behind.
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Chorwad: Ambani’s real home
Dhirubhai Ambani used to frequently travel to Chorwad after building an enormously prosperous commercial empire in Bombay. Needless to say, the Ambani family still does.
Chorwad is a picturesque coastal village in the Junagadh district of Gujarat, where the ancestral home of the Ambani family stands. Being a century old, the birthplace of Dhirubhai Ambani is a magnificent property that holds great historical significance.
Despite the passage of time, the Ambanis have managed to preserve the original architecture of this two-story mansion. The family made a huge investment in their legacy in 2002 when they bought the ancestral house in Chorwad. Because of its historical significance, they chose to turn it into a Dhirubhai Ambani memorial. The goal of this change was to preserve Ambani’s legacy. It also provides the next generation with a look into the extensive cultural history of the family.
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The Ambanis have meticulously maintained the family home’s original construction over the years in Chorwad. The two-story home serves as a showcase for the traditional architecture and workmanship of the area. They have made sure that guests may feel the atmosphere and aura that surrounded Dhirubhai during his formative years by keeping the property’s original beauty.
Construction of Ambani’s ancestral home
The ancestral house of the Ambani family is 1.2 acres in size. Notably, the house is surrounded by beautiful flora, which was once known as Mangarolvalano Delo. The Dhirubhai Ambani Memorial House has been separated into two sections, one of which is accessible to the general public.
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According to their official website, the outside garden space is split into three sections:
- A public area
- A private coconut palm grove
- A second private courtyard
Reportedly, the Dhirubhai Ambani Foundation maintains the memorial. The establishment is accessible to the public from Tuesday through Sunday from 9.30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
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In addition to the house, the Ambanis have built gardens, two schools, and a hospital in the seaside village.
The Ambani ancestral house is now a memorial
Reportedly, Mukesh Ambani contracted Amitabh Teaotia Designs and the architectural company Abhikram to renovate the more than 100-year-old ancestral property. However, according to the official website, the enormous doors, the window entry, and the building’s elevation have not changed. In 2011, the Dhirubhai Ambani Memorial House was officially opened in the presence of the whole Ambani family.
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The area of the house where Dhirubhai Ambani spent his early life has been meticulously recreated. This thorough attention to detail includes the use of brass and copper utensils, wooden furniture, and other items that reflect the family’s cultural heritage. This recreation honors Dhirubhai’s journey from humble beginnings to achievement and demonstrates how simple his childhood was.
By maintaining the integrity of the ancestral home, the Ambanis have demonstrated their commitment to preserving their cultural heritage. It offers visitors the chance to delve into the rich tapestry of traditions and beliefs that define a family’s identity. It serves as a reminder of the value of accepting and preserving one’s roots.
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All images have been taken from Dhirubhai Ambani Memorial House official website.
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