In a country where spiritual journeys on foot have long been a part of its civilizational and religious ethos, Anant Ambani—scion of India’s wealthiest family—has taken a path less travelled by those of his stature. At just 29, Anant has set out on a padayatra, a sacred walking pilgrimage deeply embedded in Indian tradition, showcasing a blend of personal devotion and cultural reverence.

A Journey from Jamnagar to Dwarka

Anant Ambani began his spiritual expedition on March 29, embarking on a 170-kilometre padayatra from Jamnagar—his ancestral land and the karmabhoomi of the Ambani family—to Dwarka, one of Hinduism’s most revered pilgrimage destinations. Each night, he walks approximately 20 kilometres, dedicating nearly seven hours to his journey, immersed in chants and spiritual reflection. The timing of this pilgrimage is significant—he reached Dwarka on April 8, just a day before his 30th birthday, symbolically stepping into a new decade of life with a spiritually charged experience.

An Outpouring of Reverence and Support

Throughout the pilgrimage, Anant received overwhelming support and affection from people across the region. Locals and fellow devotees have joined him for short stretches, walking beside him in solidarity. Some have offered images of Lord Dwarkadhish, the presiding deity of Dwarka, while others have brought along their horses for blessings and photographs with the young Ambani. This public display of goodwill illustrates not only the admiration people have for Anant's humility but also the respect for someone who, despite immense wealth, chooses to walk the path of devotion quite literally.

Triumph Over Physical Challenges

What makes this padayatra all the more inspiring is the sheer physical determination Anant has demonstrated. Battling multiple serious health issues—Cushing’s Syndrome, a rare hormonal disorder, along with morbid obesity, asthma, and a severe lung condition—his decision to undertake such a demanding pilgrimage is a testament to his inner strength and unwavering faith. Far from a symbolic gesture, this journey is a physical and spiritual triumph over adversity, reflecting a deeply personal commitment to his beliefs.

A Devotee with a Deep Spiritual Connection

Anant is not new to India's sacred geography. Known for his deep spiritual leanings, he is a devout Sanatani Hindu who frequently visits some of the country's most sacred sites. These include Badrinath, Kedarnath, Kamakhya, Nathdwara, Kalighat, and the Kumbh Mela—places where he has not only offered prayers but also extended philanthropic support. During his current padayatra, Anant can be heard reciting the Hanuman Chalisa, Sundarkand, and Devi Stotra, showing a spiritual depth that guides his every step.

A Fusion of Faith and Future Vision

While Anant’s spiritual side is now on full display, his responsibilities in the business world are equally significant. He plays a key role in overseeing the world’s largest oil refinery in Jamnagar and is actively leading Reliance Industries’ ambitious new energy projects, positioning the company at the forefront of India’s green energy transformation. Additionally, he has founded Vantara, a large-scale animal rescue and rehabilitation centre, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi—another example of his commitment to compassionate action.

Through his padayatra, Anant embodies a compelling duality—he walks in the footsteps of India’s age-old spiritual traditions while paving new paths in business and philanthropy. His journey from Jamnagar to Dwarka is not just a physical trek but a profound expression of devotion, resilience, and purpose—an inspiring reminder that even those born into privilege can choose humility, service, and sacred connection as their compass.