Chennai sources stated that four popular restaurant chains in Chennai, including the world famous Saravana Bhavan, were raided by the Income Tax Department over alleged tax evasion on Thursday morning. Reportedly searches are being conducted at 32 locations, including the residences and offices of the directors of Saravana Bhavan, Hot Breads, the Anjappar group and Grand Sweets.
As per report these hotels serve some of the best south Indian delicacies, including cakes, pastries and sweets that are even shipped abroad. Furthermore the officials added that the department is looking into allegations of suppression of income by these groups by various means and hence decided to conduct searches and obtain further evidence. Meanwhile the daily operations of these restaurants were not affected by the raids.
Moreover of the four restaurant chains, Saravana Bhavan, established by P Rajagopal in 1981, is the most well-known. Reportedly it has its outlets in 20 countries including the US, the UK, France and Australia. Reports added Anjappar was established in 1964 and offers South Indian cuisine, particularly focusing on Chettinad style preparations, at 70 outlets. It was established in 1982 by G Natarajan, The Grand Sweets & Snacks has become a big name in the industry.
