Income Tax officials raid at Tamil actor Arya's house and restaurant in Chennai: Report

Income Tax officials raid at Tamil actor Arya's house and restaurant in Chennai: Report

Tamil actor Arya, known for his performances in films like Arinthum Ariyamalum, Boss Engira Bhaskaran, and Raja Rani, is currently under the radar of the Income Tax (IT) department. On the morning of June 18, IT officials launched a series of surprise raids at multiple properties linked to Arya, including his residence and a popular restaurant chain associated with the actor.

The raids commenced early in the day, with IT officers arriving at various locations, including prominent areas such as Anna Nagar and Velachery in Chennai. A significant focus of the investigation appears to be the well-known Arabian restaurant chain long associated with Arya. The branch in Anna Nagar reportedly saw the arrival of over five officials in two vehicles, with armed police providing security during the operation, which began around 8 AM.

Arya’s residence on Poonamallee High Road was also subjected to an extensive search. The actor’s alleged connection to the restaurant chain sparked public interest, given the brand’s strong presence and the celebrity’s endorsement in the past. However, sources indicate that Arya had sold the business years ago to a Kerala-based businessman from Thalassery.

The businessman’s properties in Kerala had already been under IT scrutiny, and it is now believed that the Chennai raids are an extension of a broader investigation into the restaurant chain's financial records and ownership structure. The raids are reportedly aimed at uncovering discrepancies in reported income and possible tax evasion linked to the enterprise.

Although Arya's involvement in the day-to-day operations of the restaurant chain may have ceased, his past association with the brand appears to have prompted the IT department to include his properties in the probe.

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On the professional front, Arya’s recent venture as a producer, DD Next Level, starring Santhanam, did not fare well at the box office. He is currently involved in director Pa. Ranjith’s upcoming film Vettuvam and has also signed on for projects like Mr. X and Anandhan Kaadu.

As of now, no official statement has been released by Arya or his representatives. The IT department is expected to release more information as the investigation progresses.