- Wednesday, April 30, 2025
By: Vibhuti Pathak
Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant’s star-studded pre-wedding celebration in Jamnagar last year continues to make waves—this time, thanks to a viral recreation of Rihanna’s look by a talented makeup artist from Kolhapur. While the original event grabbed global headlines for its opulence and celebrity guest list, it was Rihanna’s vibrant fashion moment that sparked a trend across the internet.
At the grand Ambani pre-wedding event, Rihanna stunned the audience by arriving in a striking pink hooded gown paired with a contrasting sky-blue scarf. Her unique ensemble and flawless glam quickly lit up social media, with fans and fashion watchers raving about her iconic appearance.
Her style became one of the most talked-about moments from the Ambani celebration, inspiring makeup enthusiasts, influencers, and content creators across the globe to try and emulate the look.
Among those captivated by the pop star’s look was Sonali, a mehendi and makeup artist based in Kolhapur, Maharashtra. Determined to pay tribute in her own way, Sonali took to Instagram with a meticulously crafted Rihanna transformation video—and it quickly became a sensation.
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Her reel, which showcased a seamless before-and-after transition, wowed viewers with its detail. The makeup transformation was so accurate that many initially believed it was a deepfake or filter-enhanced image. But it was nothing short of real artistry.
From contoured cheekbones and sculpted brows to the glittery eyeshadow and lip shade, Sonali matched every element with jaw-dropping precision. She even replicated Rihanna’s dramatic scarf styling, showcasing not just makeup prowess but a refined eye for global fashion aesthetics.
Within just a few days, Sonali’s video garnered nearly 13 million views, drawing admiration from every corner of the internet. The comment section overflowed with love and respect for her work.
One user exclaimed, “Wait, this is not Rihanna? She nailed it!” Another added, “Give her a ticket to Hollywood already.” Others were stunned by the transformation, calling it, “better than AI filters” and “a real artist’s work.”
The praise didn’t stop there. “This is talent. Real, raw, desi talent!” wrote one fan. Another comment read, “She didn’t just copy—she embodied Rihanna.”
Many users expressed their emotional response, with one viewer noting, “Watching this gave me goosebumps. The transformation is unreal.” Another said proudly, “You’re putting Kolhapur on the global makeup map!”
The comments hailed her as a “hidden gem” and declared her “a name to watch out for” in the Indian beauty scene.
The Anant Ambani-Radhika Merchant pre-wedding bash may have been a luxurious affair, but it’s stories like Sonali’s that underscore how Indian talent continues to shine globally. Her transformation didn’t just recreate a celebrity look—it symbolized how local artistry can resonate worldwide in the age of viral content.
Thanks to Rihanna’s bold fashion moment in Jamnagar and Sonali’s incredible recreation, the beauty and fashion world witnessed a rare moment of cross-cultural admiration and inspiration.
As the video continues to trend, it’s clear that Sonali’s name is now etched in the list of desi creators who are using social media to break boundaries, celebrate creativity, and make their cities proud.
