Bollywood actor and entrepreneur Shilpa Shetty is pushing forward with the expansion of her culinary ventures, announcing the launch of a new South Indian restaurant named Ammakai. This move comes even as she and her husband, businessman Raj Kundra, navigate serious legal allegations concerning a Rs 60 crore fraud case. The new dining establishment is set to open its doors to the public on December 19 (Friday).
A Culinary Ode to Roots Amidst Legal Storm
On Thursday, Shilpa Shetty took to social media to reveal the launch date of Ammakai, her highly anticipated South Indian restaurant. The new eatery will occupy the prime Bandra address in Mumbai where her popular restaurant, Bastian, originally began operations. With Bastian having relocated to Juhu and rebranded as Bastian Beach Club, the Bandra space is now being transformed for Ammakai.
In a promotional video, Shilpa expressed her excitement, stating that the project was nearly a year in the making. “This is going to be worth the wait. It’s an ode to my roots and comfort food that reminds me of home,” she said. The announcement highlights her continued commitment to her restaurant business despite the ongoing personal legal challenges.
The Rs 60 Crore Fraud Allegations and Raj Kundra's Response
Simultaneously, Shilpa Shetty and Raj Kundra are embroiled in a significant legal battle. The Mumbai Police’s Economic Offences Wing (EOW) registered an FIR against the couple on Wednesday based on a complaint filed by businessman Deepak Kothari. Kothari, director of Lotus Capital Financial Services Ltd, has accused the couple of cheating him in a loan-cum-investment transaction worth Rs 60 crore.
A statement from Deepak Kothari's lawyer claimed that the EOW investigation has uncovered material evidence against Shilpa and Raj that supports the allegations. However, Raj Kundra has vehemently denied all charges. In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), he called the allegations “baseless and motivated.”
Raj Kundra stated, “We categorically deny the baseless and motivated allegations being circulated. The issues sought to be raised are being given a criminal colour without any lawful basis. A Quashing Petition has already been filed before the Hon’ble High Court and is pending adjudication... We respectfully urge the media to exercise restraint as the matter is sub judice.”
Bastian's Recent Controversy and Business Reshuffle
Adding to the complex backdrop, Shilpa Shetty's flagship restaurant, Bastian in Bengaluru, has also been in the news recently. Reports emerged that a complaint was filed against the upscale venue for allegedly operating past the legal closing time. This incident, though separate from the fraud case, has kept her restaurant chain in the public eye for reasons beyond its cuisine.
The launch of Ammakai represents a strategic reshuffling and expansion of her brand. The original Bastian's move to Juhu as a beach club and the introduction of a new South Indian concept in its former home indicate a dynamic business strategy focused on growth and diversification.
As the December 19 opening approaches, the industry and fans will be watching to see how the new restaurant is received. The dual narrative of a high-profile business launch and a serious legal confrontation ensures that Shilpa Shetty and Raj Kundra remain firmly in the spotlight, for both their professional ventures and personal tribulations.
