(Web Desk) - Locals in Portofino and Genoa have voiced their anger over Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant’s pre-wedding cruise.
The massive event was a four-day cruise from Palermo to the south of France and back with stops in Rome, Portofino, Genoa and Cannes, with at least 800 people attending.
On June 1, 2024, the cruise stopped at Portofino for a party titled La Dolce Vita.
But the celebration annoyed locals and businesses as access to the entire bay was blocked, preventing residents and other tourists from being able to visit.
The village has been a popular celebrity destination but it has never been shut down before for an event.
Reportedly, nearly a dozen restaurants were offered between €7,000 and €10,000 to cater the event.
However, Andrea Miroli, manager of Il Puny, which has served the likes of Denzel Washington, Steven Spielberg and Sir Elton John, said they were asked to provide catering on very short notice.
Andrea told The Times: “We were offered €10,000 just 20 days before the event.
“I find this offensive, bad-mannered and incorrect. I have my customers and an illustrious history to protect.”
On social media, residents and tourists voiced their complaints.
One user wrote on X: “Many other celebrities and billionaires have celebrated in Portofino, none of them have ever removed access to the main point for others.
“Many billionaires have come to party here, but no one has ever taken away access to the main part of the city.
“Who do they think they are?
“They can’t just come in, throw their party, and make it difficult for people to do their daily chores.”
A tourist in the area tweeted: “I couldn’t see the main attractions of Portofino this weekend due to a private event organised by an Indian billionaire for his spoiled son.
“There have been many events hosted by billionaires in the past, but none have ever closed the area.”
The Ambani event had a negative effect on local businesses, with one tour guide saying: “As a local tour guide in Portofino, it is disheartening to see our city closed for a private event.
“Our livelihood depends on tourism, and this weekend was a huge setback.”
Genoa was also affected by the event, with speakers blaring loud music.
A local firefighter said: “The behaviour of the organisers was absurd.
“They kept half of Genoa awake with the high, unjustified volume for most of the night before it stopped at dawn.
“What’s worse is the coastguard did nothing, despite being called at 4:30 am.”