Image Source : Firstpost
Mumbai bids farewell to one of its most celebrated dining and nightlife venues as Shilpa Shetty announces the closure of her renowned restaurant Bastian in Bandra. This closure comes amid rising legal troubles for the actress and entrepreneur, who along with her husband Raj Kundra, faces allegations of defrauding a Mumbai businessman of over Rs 60 crore in a loan-investment scam spanning several years. The announcement marks the end of an era for a venue synonymous with celebrity gatherings and vibrant Mumbai nightlife.
Key Highlights Of The Bastian Bandra Closure
Actress Shilpa Shetty confirmed via Instagram that Bastian Bandra, one of Mumbai’s iconic restaurant destinations, will close on a Thursday, ending its celebrated run.
Bastian was co-owned by Shilpa Shetty and restaurateur Ranjit Bindra and was relocated and relaunched in Bandra in 2023 after opening in 2016.
The restaurant earned a reputation for exquisite cuisine, artistic and luxurious interiors, and a star-studded clientele, becoming a hotspot for celebrities and socialites.
Shilpa expressed emotional sentiments about the closure, calling it “the end of an era” and promised a special evening with loyal patrons as a tribute to the space’s legacy.
Though Bastian Bandra is closing, the popular Thursday night event “Arcane Affair” will continue at Bastian at the Top in Dadar West, preserving the brand’s spirit in a new format.
Context Of The Fraud Allegations
The closure takes place against the backdrop of allegations by Mumbai businessman Deepak Kothari, who accuses Shilpa Shetty and Raj Kundra of defrauding him of over Rs 60 crore related to a loan-cum-investment deal connected to their now-defunct company Best Deal TV Pvt Ltd. The fraud is alleged to have occurred between 2015 and 2023, with claims that investment funds were diverted for personal use.
The couple has denied all allegations through their legal counsel, describing the claims as “baseless” and affirming their intention to cooperate fully with investigative agencies. The case has attracted significant media and public attention, adding pressure on the couple and their business ventures.
Impact On Mumbai’s Dining And Celebrity Scene
Bastian Bandra was more than just a restaurant; it was a cultural hub for Mumbai’s elite nightlife. Known for hosting memorable celebrity gatherings, exclusive parties, and live events, it played a pivotal role in defining the social fabric of Bandra. Its closure signals a loss for those seeking luxury casual dining combined with an upscale entertainment experience.
However, the continuation of the Arcane Affair event at Bastian at the Top ensures that the essence and legacy of Bastian will live on in a new form, offering fans and patrons fresh experiences.
Shilpa Shetty’s Business And Legal Landscape
Beyond acting, Shilpa Shetty has diversified her career into entrepreneurship, with ventures spanning wellness, fashion, and hospitality. The alleged fraud case, however, casts a shadow over her entrepreneurial journey and may influence future business dealings.
Industry observers note that celebrity-backed ventures often face heightened scrutiny and reputational risks, magnified by legal controversies. How Shilpa and Raj Kundra navigate these challenges will be closely watched by stakeholders and the public alike.
Conclusion
The closing of Bastian Bandra amid a Rs 60 crore fraud case underscores the complex interplay of celebrity, business, and legal challenges faced by Shilpa Shetty and her husband. While the restaurant’s shutdown marks the end of a beloved Mumbai venue, the promise to continue its legacy through other channels offers a glimpse of resilience and renewal. As the legal proceedings unfold, this high-profile case serves as a potent reminder of accountability and transparency in celebrity entrepreneurship.
Sources: Economic Times, Moneycontrol, Deccan Herald, Hindustan Times, CNBC TV18, Business Standard
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