Brands
Farhan and Shibani Akhtar join Nu Republic as brand ambassadors
Mumbai: Nu Republic, an Indian lifestyle technology brand renowned for its “wear-tech” – wireless audio, watches. earbuds and speakers proudly announce its association with the dynamic power couple, Farhan Akhtar and Shibani Akhtar.
In this ground-breaking collaboration, Farhan and Shibani will be the ambassadors of Nu Republic – a brand that shares their unwavering commitment towards disruption and innovation
“These tech products are worn by people & are born to be stylish & fashionable – not merely functional” This conviction is at the heart of the Nu Republic product development process & over the years the brand has garnered widespread acclaim for its funky products.
Farhan Akhtar, a versatile actor, director, and producer, and Shibani Akhtar, an accomplished model, singer, and television host, embody the ethos of Nu Republic & bring their expertise, and effortless style to this collaboration.
Nu Republic founder Ujjwal Sarin expressed his excitement, stating, “Farhan Akhtar and Shibani Akhtar embody the ethos of Nu Republic through their multifaceted accomplishments.
At Nu Republic we are on a mission to challenge the mono-colour world of wear-tech, challenge the status quo and establish wear-tech as a fashion accessory, a form of self-expression.
Farhan and Shibani are the OG trailblazers who have inspired us all. Farhan has consistently pushed boundaries and disrupted the Indian film industry with his exceptional talent and revolutionary approach to acting, singing and filmmaking. Shibani, on the other hand, has carved a niche for herself in the world of fashion, music, and entertainment, redefining norms and inspiring individuals through her talent.
Their disruptive mindset, creative brilliance, and their dedication to making a difference align perfectly with our brand’s mission”
The Nu Republic, through its fashion-first product design and development process, challenges the idea of electronic wear-tech as mere utilitarian gadgets. Through the fashion-first design philosophy, the brand has successfully redefined the playing field by making high-style attainable, and high-tech affordable.
Farhan and Shibani Akhtar, equally thrilled about the collaboration, shared their thoughts.
Farhan said, “I am delighted to be associated with Nu Republic, a brand that shares my passion for music and innovation. Nu Republic’s commitment to transforming wear tech into a medium of self-expression aligns perfectly with my thoughts. I look forward to collaborating with Nu Republic as it blends the boundaries of music, technology & fashion”
Shibani added, “Being a part of Nu Republic is truly exciting. We look forward to collaborating with Nu Republic and inspiring individuals to embrace technology as an extension of their individuality.”
As brand ambassadors Farhan and Shibani Akhtar will actively participate in various promotional activities, including digital and print campaigns, events, and social media initiatives.
Brands
Jubilant FoodWorks faces Rs 47.5 crore GST demand, plans appeal
Tax authorities flag alleged misclassification of restaurant services
MUMBAI: Jubilant FoodWorks Limited has landed in a tax tussle after receiving a GST demand of Rs 47.5 crore from the office of the additional commissioner of CGST and central excise in Thane, Maharashtra.
The order, issued under the provisions of the Central Goods and Services Tax Act, 2017, relates to an alleged incorrect classification of certain services under the category of restaurant services. According to the tax authorities, this classification resulted in a short payment of goods and services tax for the period between the financial years 2019-20 and 2021-22.
The demand includes Rs 47.5 crore in GST along with an equal amount as penalty, in addition to applicable interest. The order was received by the company on March 13, 2026.
In a regulatory filing to the BSE Limited and the National Stock Exchange of India Limited, the company said it disagrees with the order and believes its arguments were not adequately considered.
The company is preparing to challenge the decision and plans to file an appeal. It added that once the redressal process is complete, the demand is likely to be dropped.
Despite the sizeable figure attached to the notice, the company said it does not expect any material impact on its financials, operations or other activities.
The disclosure was signed by Suman Hegde, EVP and chief financial officer, who confirmed that the company received the order at 19:06 IST on March 13 and has already initiated steps to contest it.
The development places the quick service restaurant major in the middle of a tax debate that could hinge on how certain restaurant-linked services are classified under GST rules. For now, the company appears ready to take the matter from the tax office to the appeals desk.
