Rema Reacts to Report of Receiving $3M for Performance at Indian Wedding

Nigerian afrobeats star Rema has addressed recent speculation regarding his reported $3 million payment for performing at the wedding of Anant Ambani, the son of Asia’s richest man Mukesh Ambani, and Radhika Merchant, daughter of prominent pharma tycoons Viren and Shaila Merchant.

Rema, who performed his hit song “Calm Down” at the opulent ceremony on July 12 at Mumbai’s Jio World Centre, has been at the center of headlines following the event. Reports from Hindustan Times suggested the significant fee, capturing widespread attention.

In a recent interview with GRM, Rema was questioned about the accuracy of the $3 million figure. He responded with a blend of amusement and gratitude, stating, “Hehehe. That’s what I can say, to be honest. Money-wise, but overall, it was a great treatment. It was beautiful.”

Reflecting on his career and experiences in India, Rema emphasized the positive reception he has received. “I love India. India loves me, too. And it’s just beautiful to see something that people trolled me for, criticized me for. And now, I’m benefiting from that,” he said.

Rema also highlighted the significance of his success in India, noting, “Imagine if I stopped. Imagine if I actually listened to the trolls online and switched up my sound. Four years later, it paid and still paying and more to come. India is a huge territory. I’m actually the first afrobeats artist to tour India. I’m even probably the first African if I’m not wrong, but if I’m mistaking, please forgive me. But it’s a huge deal.”

The artist further noted the overwhelming support he experiences in India, describing it as even more intense than in Nigeria. “It’s not just about the wedding. It’s about the reception everywhere I go. I remember when I was touring India, I didn’t even know how they knew. When I go anywhere just to eat, it’s just paparazzi. It’s crazier than the love in Nigeria,” he added.