Rema Reacts to Reports of $3 Million Payment for Performance at Indian Wedding

Nigerian Afrobeats star Rema has addressed the viral reports claiming he was paid $3 million to perform at the wedding of Anant Ambani, son of Asia’s richest man Mukesh Ambani, and Radhika Merchant, daughter of pharma tycoons Viren and Shaila Merchant.

Rema made headlines for his performance on July 12 at the Jio World Centre in Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC), Mumbai. According to Hindustan Times, the payment for his performance of the global hit song ‘Calm Down’ was reported to be $3 million.

In a recent interview with GRM, Rema was asked to comment on the payment.

Interviewer: “Is it true you got paid $3 million for Ambani’s wedding in India?”

Rema: “Hehehe. That’s all I can say, honestly. While I can’t comment on the exact amount, the overall experience was fantastic. The treatment was exceptional, and it was beautiful.

“I love India, and the feeling is mutual. It’s rewarding to see something that was once criticized now turning into a significant benefit. Imagine if I had given in to the trolls and changed my sound.

“Four years later, the hard work is paying off and will continue to do so. India is a major market, and I believe I’m the first Afrobeats artist to tour there. I might even be the first African artist to do so, though I stand to be corrected. It’s a big deal.

“It’s not just about the wedding; it’s about the entire reception I received wherever I went. I remember being amazed by how well people knew me during my tour. Even at casual outings, the attention was intense, surpassing even the love I receive in Nigeria.”