Amid escalating speculation surrounding Bastian's alleged daily turnover of Rs 2–3 crore, actor and co-owner Shilpa Shetty, alongside restaurateur Ranjit Bindra, have stepped forward to address the viral revenue claims. In a recent detailed conversation, the duo delved into the brand's remarkable journey, their collaborative partnership, and the sensational figures that have captured public attention.
From Customer to Co-Owner: Shilpa Shetty's Bastian Journey
Shilpa Shetty, who joined Bastian in 2019 and currently holds a significant 50 percent stake in the hospitality brand, revealed her initial connection to the restaurant. She first entered Bastian in 2016 as a regular diner, unaware of the future partnership that would unfold.
In an exclusive interview, Shilpa shared, "I am absolutely delighted that Ranjit and I crossed paths. Our meeting occurred at Bastian when I visited as a customer in 2016. That encounter sparked our conversations, and he informed me about his plans to open another outlet in Worli, which eventually became an iconic establishment. However, I must recount the backstory—I was entirely unconvinced initially because that location was merely a barren space at the time. Ranjit, on the other hand, was utterly convinced he could transform it into a premier restaurant. We launched during the challenging Covid period, yet that is precisely where the Bastian brand truly solidified its identity. Presently, we operate eight restaurants spanning four distinct brands under the Bastian umbrella."
Expansion and Evolution of Bastian
What originated as an 80-seater restaurant in Bandra has now flourished into eight outlets across four verticals, showcasing the brand's impressive growth and adaptability in the competitive hospitality sector.
Ranjit Bindra on Shilpa Shetty's Influence
Ranjit Bindra expressed that Shilpa's involvement fundamentally altered the brand's energy and trajectory. "She brought a distinct and positive energy. Whenever we conversed, there was always an uplifting vibe. I consistently hoped Shilpa would become an integral part of Bastian—and my intuition proved correct. She has been my fortunate charm," he remarked.
Regarding the impact of celebrity backing, Ranjit elaborated, "Celebrity association holds significance because it amplifies exposure. It facilitates widespread recognition, and Shilpa excels in this role remarkably. Her insights are invaluable to me; she is akin to an elder sister, so I invariably heed her advice." He also disclosed that Bastian required nearly four years to achieve profitability, underscoring the brand's steady and calculated growth.
Addressing the Rs 2–3 Crore Daily Turnover Claims
When questioned about circulating reports suggesting Bastian earns Rs 2–3 crore daily, Ranjit responded with cautious optimism. "I genuinely wish those figures were accurate. I am confident that one day they will materialize, so let's remain hopeful and cross our fingers," he stated.
Origin of the Viral Revenue Speculation
The claim originated from author Shobhaa De's comments on Mojo Story, where she asserted, "A single restaurant in Mumbai boasts a turnover of Rs 2-3 crore per night. On slower evenings, it reaches Rs 2 crore, while weekends escalate to Rs 3 crore. I personally visited the restaurant to verify these numbers because upon hearing them, I found it难以置信."
When prompted by Barkha Dutt to identify the restaurant, Shobhaa clarified, "It's Bastian—the new Bastian location atop a building. Spanning 21,000 square feet, it feels surreal. Upon entering, you question your surroundings with a 360-degree city view. They conduct two seatings nightly, each accommodating 700 people, totaling 1,400 patrons. A waiting list extends downstairs onto the streets of Dadar, a traditional Maharashtrian area in Mumbai. Patrons arrive in luxury vehicles like Lamborghinis and Aston Martins. The clientele is astonishing."
While these numbers continue to fuel debates and discussions, Shilpa Shetty and Ranjit Bindra emphasize that Bastian's expansion has been methodical and consistent. They maintain that the brand's finest achievements may still lie ahead, reflecting their unwavering commitment to sustained growth and excellence in the hospitality industry.
