Reliance announces opening of Jio World Centre in Mumbai's BKC

Billionaire Mukesh Ambani-led Reliance Industries Ltd (RIL) on Friday announced the opening of the country's largest and most prestigious multi-faceted destination, the 'Jio World Centre' in Mumbai's Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC).

"Envisioned by Nita Ambani, Director Reliance Industries and Founder-Chairperson of Reliance Foundation, the centre covers an expanse of 18.5 acres in BKC, and is set to become an iconic business, commerce and culture destination, giving India and its citizens a world-class landmark," RIL said in a statement. 

Launching initially with a dedication of the Dhirubhai Ambani Square, the Jio World Centre will have a phase-wise opening over the course of the current and the next year, it added.

Commenting on the announcement, Nita Ambani said, "Jio World Centre is a tribute to our glorious nation and a reflection of the aspirations of New India. From the largest conventions to cultural experiences to pathbreaking retail and dining facilities, Jio World Centre is envisioned as Mumbai's new landmark, a point where we come together to script the next chapter of India's growth story." 

Dhirubhai Ambani Square is dedicated to RIL Founder Dhirubhai Ambani and the city of Mumbai. A free-entry, open public space, it promises to become a must-see destination for local citizens and tourists from around the world. The Dhirubhai Ambani Square is centered around the Fountain of Joy, a series of spectacular fountain shows of water, lights and music.

Dedicating the musical fountain, Nita Ambani said, "With great joy and pride, we dedicate the Dhirubhai Ambani Square and the world class Fountain of Joy to the people and city of Mumbai. A celebration of the spirit of the city, it will be an iconic new public space where people share joys and soak in the colours and sounds of Aamchi Mumbai! I am delighted to pay a special tribute to teachers on the opening night. Having been a teacher myself, I thank our teachers for working tirelessly and keeping the flame of knowledge burning in these challenging times. Our tribute show applauds these real heroes".

RIL explained that over 250 teachers from BMC schools and other schools across Mumbai were invited to attend the opening show as a mark of respect for their efforts in adapting to the new methods of teaching in last two years.

Jio World Convention Centre highlights:

• 3 exhibition halls spanning 161460 sq. ft., accommodating over 16,500 guests
• 2 convention halls totalling 107640 sq. ft. accommodating over 10,640 guests
• A 32290 sq. ft. ballroom, accommodating over 3200 guests
• 25 meeting rooms with total area of 29062 sq. ft.
• Total area of 139930 sq. ft. of pre-function concourse across all the levels
• Hybrid and digital experiences enabled by 5G network
• Largest kitchen capacity with ability to cater to over 18,000 meals a day
• India's largest on-site parking in a convention centre with capacity of 5,000 cars

According to company, the Jio World Convention Centre "offers India's largest convention and exhibition facilities and aims to put India firmly in the fast-growing global convention and exhibitions eco system and it would to be an enduring contribution to India and the city of Mumbai." The centre is expected to host distinguished business and social events including consumer shows, conferences, exhibitions, mega concerts, gala banquets and weddings.

"Dhirubhai Ambani Square and Jio World Convention Centre's public openings are a precursor to the monumental project and the extraordinary experiences that visitors can expect from the Jio World Centre," noted Reliance. 

The centre will also be home to new culinary concepts including Oberoi 360 and the global culinary sensation, India Accent; a retail precinct with world class shopping experience and luxury brands. However, the epicentre of the culturally immersive experiences will be the crowning jewel-the cultural centre; due to launch in 2023.

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