"art has the power to transcend boundaries"
Indian billionaire Anil Agarwal has acquired the iconic 100-year-old Riverside Studios, located on the northern side of the River Thames.
Riverside Studios is a performing arts studio that holds a storied legacy in the arts world.
It has become known for hosting legendary artists like the Beatles, Amy Winehouse, Yoko Ono, David Bowie, Dario Fo and David Hockney, among others.
It will now operate under the name Anil Agarwal Riverside Studios Trust.
In a statement, Agarwal said: “I have always believed that art has the power to transcend boundaries, unite people, and elevate human experience.
“Riverside Studios will become a premier global destination for showcasing Indian and global arts and culture.”
He has invited Indian artists and the film industry to showcase their talent at the famous studio.
Agarwal added: “Global leaders from various spheres now have an opportunity to enthral the audience with their real-life experiences and journey, here.”
On X, Agarwal announced the acquisition and said that part of his dream had come true as he revealed the real reason for his move to Mumbai – to become a singer in Bollywood.
He wrote: “What many people may not know is the reason I came to Mumbai for the first time – to become a singer in Bollywood.
“From rock concerts to Bollywood movie screenings, we aim to showcase the best of both worlds on this global stage.
“I warmly invite Indian as well as international artistes and the film fraternity to bring their magic here. Let’s make art a language of love and unity.”
What many people may not know is the reason I came to Mumbai for the first time – to become a singer in Bollywood.
Yeh mera sapna raha hai ki main arts, culture and entertainment industry mein kuchh contribute karoon. Finally, a part of that dream has come true.… pic.twitter.com/om021fRd8v
— Anil Agarwal (@AnilAgarwal_Ved) January 8, 2025
Originally from Bihar, Anil Agarwal is known as India’s metal king, having founded the leading natural resources conglomerate Vedanta Resources Limited.
After moving to Mumbai, Agarwal launched a scrap metal business, collecting and selling aluminium.
He then secured a loan and acquired Shamsher Starling Corporation in 1976.
In 1993, Agarwal expanded his business by establishing Sterlite Industries and venturing into the mining industry.
He founded Vedanta Resources — the first Indian company to be listed on the London Stock Exchange.
Under Agarwal’s leadership, the company ventured into various sectors, including natural resources, power generation, and even agriculture.
After venturing into various sectors and consolidating his position in the business world, Agarwal expanded his business portfolio by acquiring a 51% stake in Bharat Aluminium Company (BALCO) in 2021.
In 2022, he bought a 65% stake in Hindustan Zinc Limited.
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