Atithi Devo Bhava: Ambanis Host Hillary Clinton at Antilia

New Delhi, February 21, 2026: In a shimmering display of Indian hospitality and cultural heritage, Mukesh and Nita Ambani opened the doors of their iconic Mumbai residence, Antilia, to welcome former US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton. The evening, which celebrated a decades-long friendship, was a masterclass in the Indian philosophy of Atithi Devo Bhava—the belief that “the guest is our god.”

The reception, held on February 20, 2026, served as a serene cultural interlude during Clinton’s high-profile visit to India for the inaugural Mumbai Climate Week.

A Welcome Steeped in Tradition

The evening began with a poignant moment at the entrance of Antilia. In a video shared by the Reliance Foundation, Nita Ambani was seen greeting Secretary Clinton with the traditional Sanskrit invocation, Atithi Devo Bhava. Nita gracefully translated the phrase for her guest, explaining, “That means the guest is our god,” setting an appreciative tone for the night.

The Ambani family, including Mukesh and Isha Ambani, hosted the former First Lady in an atmosphere that blended global diplomacy with the warmth of a personal reunion. For the occasion:

• Nita Ambani wore a sophisticated blue floral saree paired with minimal, elegant jewelry.
• Hillary Clinton opted for a crisp, all-white ensemble, complemented by a beige overcoat and a striking statement necklace.
• Mukesh Ambani maintained a classic look in a white button-down shirt and black trousers.

Sitar Recitals and Artisanal Heritage

The highlight of the evening was a live cultural showcase designed to highlight India’s rich artistic legacy. Guests were treated to a soulful Sitar recital performed by two young musicians. Nita Ambani, a well-known patron of the arts, was heard praising the performers, noting both their talent and the beauty they brought to the traditional instrument.

Beyond the music, the gathering served as a platform for India’s “timeless crafts.” The hosts showcased intricate examples of:

• Gulabi Meenakari: The delicate pink enamel work from Varanasi.
• Sozni Embroidery: The painstaking needlework heritage of Kashmir.

This focus on craftsmanship mirrored Clinton’s own long-standing interest in Indian grassroots innovation and women’s empowerment, themes she had championed earlier in the week.

From Climate Action to Cultural Ties

The visit to Antilia followed Hillary Clinton’s impactful keynote at the Mumbai Climate Week (MCW) 2026. During the summit, Clinton praised India as a “vanguard of climate innovation,” specifically highlighting a heat-resilience insurance model developed in collaboration with SEWA (Self-Employed Women’s Association) that now protects over 500,000 women workers.

The evening at the Ambani residence acted as a bridge between these serious global discussions and the personal bonds that strengthen Indo-US relations. The Ambanis and Clintons share a history dating back years; Secretary Clinton previously attended the pre-wedding celebrations of Isha Ambani in Udaipur in 2018.

A Legacy of Global Hosting

This cultural reception adds to the Ambanis’ growing portfolio of hosting world leaders and global icons. By integrating traditional music and artisanal crafts into such high-level meetings, the family continues to use Antilia not just as a home, but as a premier stage for cultural diplomacy.

The night concluded with a private dinner, where conversations reportedly moved from art and sustainability to the evolving role of philanthropy in the Global South.