Nita Ambani kicks off the first day, first show of ‘Life of Pi’

Move over, Marvel. Last night, Mumbai got a true blockbuster—Life of Pi, the five-time Olivier Award-winning and three-time Tony Award-winning play is now live on stage at The Grand Theatre at the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre. 

Founder and chairperson of the Reliance Foundation, Nita Ambani, dressed in a black Prada dress, paired with YSL sandals, a Cartier panther bracelet and a Chanel minaudière, kicked the night off with a warm welcome. “It’s a very special night as we present the iconic theatrical Life of Pi for the first time ever in India–and in South East Asia! Life of Pi is an incredible story of hope, faith, courage, resilience, and the indomitable human spirit,” she said in her opening speech.

“When we launched NMACC eighteen months ago, we had promised that we would get the best of Indian and the best of global shows here at the Cultural Centre. It is our endeavour to delight the audience, to entertain them and get the best of the cultural experiences,” she added.

Among others spotted at the premiere of the theatrical production in Mumbai were actors Ayushmann Khurrana, Aditi Rao Hydari, Jim Sarbh, Mandira Bedi, Sonali Bendre, Lilette Dubey and more, all soaking in the breathtaking visuals and masterful storytelling. 

Remember Yann Martel’s book that made us all ponder life, faith, and whether we’d survive on a lifeboat with a tiger? Or Ang Lee’s film that made us cry, gasp, and google “How real were those CGI animals?” Well, this theatrical adaptation has taken that epic story, cranked it up to Broadway levels, and thrown in some puppets so lifelike, even the Royal Bengal tiger Richard Parker might’ve done a double take. So whether you’re a die-hard fan of the novel or just here for Insta-worthy moments, this critically acclaimed show, on stage until December 22nd, is a must-watch for every age group.