Renowned Egyptologist Zahi Hawass divulged the details of the extravagant wedding ceremony held at the Pyramids for Indian billionaire Ankur Jain and his fashion model wife Erika Hammond.
During a phone call with journalist Ahmed Mousa on “On My Responsibility” program, Hawass revealed that the celebrations took place near the Sphinx, Mohamed Ali Palace, and the final event was held at Gold Island.
The four-day affair included a party near the statue of Ramses II and a legendary dinner banquet, he added.
Hawass explained that the couples arrived in Egypt aboard a private EgyptAir flight from South Africa, where they had previously been on a safari adventure.
The rental cost for the area near the statue of Ramses II amounted to US$200,000, he noted.
The groom spent about three million dollars during his four-day wedding visit to Egypt, Hawass said.
He added that the couple had nothing but positive things to say about Egypt’s safety, stating that they did not encounter any problems and only received assistance from Egyptian institutions.
The bride’s wedding dress, a masterpiece of cultural fusion, embodied the essence of both Indian and ancient Egyptian traditions.
Inspired by the legendary beauty and power of Cleopatra, the gown was adorned with pure gold, reminiscent of the opulence of ancient Egypt. Its intricate design also reflected the rich heritage of Indian craftsmanship, seamlessly blending two distinct cultures into a harmonious whole.
Prior to the grand wedding ceremony, the bride and groom hosted a pre-wedding gala for their distinguished American guests at the Grand Egyptian Museum under the theme “Ancient Egypt X Met Gala.”
The event featured traditional performances and ancient Egyptian dances, as guests received gifts of perfumes inspired by ancient Egyptian culture, papyrus scrolls, and body accessories.
According to Hawass, Jain’s father had previously visited Egypt 15 years ago with his three sons, including Ankur who has now returned to host his wedding there.
The guests were delighted by the festivities and expressed their intention to serve as ambassadors for Egypt, Hawass said, encouraging others to visit and explore its rich archaeological treasures.
A wedding full of stars
The star-studded wedding ceremony was graced by a host of prominent figures, including:
- Lance Bass and Michael Turchin: The renowned singer and his husband, an actor and producer, added a touch of Hollywood glamour to the event.
- Robin Thicke and April Love Geary: The popular singer and his model girlfriend brought musical charm and elegance to the celebration.
- Ryan Seacrest and Emmanuelle Vasseur: The media personality and his partner, a fashion designer, added a touch of style and sophistication to the gathering.
- Kevin O’Leary and Linda O’Leary: The renowned entrepreneur and his wife, a television personality, brought their business acumen and charisma to the festivities.
- Rick Perry and Anita Perry: The former Governor of Texas and his wife, a political activist, added a touch of political influence and experience to the event.
- Jay Briant Kelly: The musician and entrepreneur brought his musical talent and business savvy to the celebration.
- Serena Kerrigan: The social media influencer and businesswoman added her digital presence and entrepreneurial spirit to the gathering.
- Dr. Zahi Hawass: The renowned Egyptologist, along with his colleague and fellow archaeologist Dr. Mark Lehner, brought their knowledge and passion for Egyptian history to the celebration.
- Francis Suarez and Gloria Suarez: The Mayor of Miami and his wife, a community leader, brought a touch of local charm and civic engagement to the event.
- Liz Claman: The Fox Business anchor added her journalistic expertise and financial acumen to the festivities.
- Bianca Peters: The Fox 5 New York anchor brought her news reporting skills and on-screen presence to the celebration.
- Harvey Spevak: The President of Equinox Group, a real estate and hospitality company, added his business leadership and industry expertise to the event.
