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Bollywood gossip corridors are buzzing once again, and this time the chatter isn’t about a new film or red-carpet appearance. Actress and entrepreneur Shilpa Shetty’s popular luxury pub Bastian in Bengaluru has suddenly found itself in the limelight after officials from the Income Tax Department conducted a surprise raid, setting tongues wagging across both the entertainment and business worlds.
The high-profile restaurant, known for its celebrity appeal, upscale vibe, and party crowd, reportedly witnessed officials arriving for an inspection that quickly became the talk of the town. According to industry buzz, the raid was part of a broader financial probe, with authorities examining documents, accounts, and transaction records linked to the establishment. While no official wrongdoing has been confirmed so far, the unexpected visit was enough to send shockwaves through social media and Bollywood WhatsApp groups alike.
Shilpa Shetty, who has successfully built a strong brand beyond films from fitness ventures to hospitality is no stranger to business success. Bastian, co-owned by her husband Raj Kundra, has long been seen as a hot spot for celebrities, influencers, and Bengaluru’s elite. That’s precisely why news of the raid spread rapidly, with fans and industry insiders speculating about what prompted the scrutiny.
Those close to the matter suggest the operation was procedural and part of routine checks conducted on high-revenue establishments. Still, the association with a Bollywood A-lister ensured the development grabbed instant headlines. Entertainment circles are abuzz with discussions about how celebrity-backed businesses often attract extra attention, especially when they operate at a luxury scale.
Interestingly, Shilpa herself has maintained silence so far, choosing not to react publicly to the development. Fans have been quick to defend the actress online, pointing out her long-standing reputation and successful entrepreneurial journey. Many believe the issue is being blown out of proportion simply because of the star power attached to the brand.
Meanwhile, industry observers note that celebrity investments in nightlife and hospitality have grown rapidly in recent years, making them frequent subjects of regulatory checks. From Mumbai to Bengaluru, star-owned lounges and restaurants often operate under intense scrutiny and any official visit instantly becomes headline material.
As investigations continue, all eyes remain on what unfolds next. For now, the episode serves as a reminder that even glitzy celebrity ventures aren’t immune to official inspections. Whether this turns out to be a routine verification or something more serious remains to be seen but one thing is certain: Bollywood is watching closely.
