Mumbai, the financial capital of India, is home to many marvels. Among them, Antilia stands out not only for its opulence but also for the controversies that surround it. Valued at a staggering USD 4.6 billion in 2023, this private residence is owned by billionaire Mukesh Ambani and his family. Let’s delve into the details of this architectural wonder and the intriguing backstory that accompanies it.
Architectural Brilliance and Unparalleled Luxury
Antilia is not just a residence; it is a symbol of luxury, innovation, and architectural brilliance. Completed between 2006 and 2010, this 27-story structure soars to 173 meters (568 feet) and spans over 6,070 square meters (65,340 square feet). Designed to withstand a magnitude 8 earthquake, Antilia is a fortress of safety and luxury.
Mukesh Ambani House Mumbai Address
Mukesh Ambani's house Antilia is in Mumbai. It is located at Altamount Road, Cumballa Hill, Mumbai – 400026.
Antilia Key Features and Amenities
The residence boasts an array of amenities that redefine luxury living:
- 168-Car Garage: A colossal garage capable of housing 168 cars.
- Ballroom: A grand ballroom for hosting lavish events.
- High-Speed Elevators: Nine elevators to ensure swift vertical transportation.
- 50-Seat Theatre: A private theatre for entertainment.
- Terrace Gardens: Beautifully landscaped gardens providing a green oasis.
- Swimming Pool and Spa: Facilities for relaxation and wellness.
- Health Centre: A comprehensive health and fitness centre.
- Temple: A serene space for spiritual activities.
- Snow Room: A unique room that produces snowflakes from the walls.
The design of Antilia incorporates the elements of the lotus and the sun, adding to its uniqueness and aesthetic appeal. The top six floors are dedicated to private residential spaces, offering unparalleled views and privacy to the Ambani family.
The Controversial Land Deal
The land on which Antilia stands has a storied and contentious history. The 4,532-square-meter (1.120-acre) plot was originally home to the Currimbhoy Ebrahim Khoja Yateemkhana (Kareembhai Ibrahim Khwaja Orphanage), a charity-run orphanage founded in 1895 by Currimbhoy Ebrahim, a wealthy shipowner. In 2002, the trust managing the orphanage sought permission to sell the land, and subsequently, the land was sold to Antilia Commercial Private Limited, a commercial entity controlled by Mukesh Ambani, for ₹210.5 million (USD 2.6 million).
However, the sale sparked controversy as the prevailing market value of the land was estimated to be at least ₹1.5 billion (USD 19 million). The sale contravened § 51 of the Wakf Act, which mandates that such transactions require the permission of the Maharashtra State Board of Waqfs. Despite initial opposition from the Waqf minister, the revenue department of Maharashtra, and the Waqf board, the deal proceeded after the objections were withdrawn.
Legal Battles and Public Interest Litigation
The sale of the land has been subject to multiple legal challenges. The Supreme Court of India directed the Waqf board to approach the Bombay High Court after dismissing a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) challenging the sale. In 2011, the Union government recommended that the Maharashtra government consider referring the matter to the Central Bureau of Investigation. A decade later, in 2018, a PIL filed by Abdul Matin was still being heard by a special bench of the court.
Valuation and Market Dynamics
In 2007, even before its completion, the unbuilt Antilia and its plot were estimated to be worth over USD 1.2 billion due to a sustained real estate bubble in Mumbai. By 2014, Antilia was considered the world's most expensive private residence, with construction costs estimated between USD 1 and 2 billion. The valuation of Antilia has skyrocketed, reaching USD 4.6 billion in 2023, reflecting the average annual growth rate of 11.2% in Mumbai's real estate market from 2010 to 2020.
Conclusion
Antilia is a towering symbol of wealth and architectural prowess, but its history is also marked by controversy and legal disputes. As the residence of one of the world's richest families, it stands as a testament to the opulence and complexity of modern real estate in Mumbai. The story of Antilia is not just about luxury; it is also a narrative of legal battles, market dynamics, and the changing landscape of urban India.
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