Brands
United Breweries faces Rs 22.5 crore tax demand from Maharashtra VAT
Company plans appeal, says case strong despite levy on FY22 filings
MUMBAI: United Breweries Limited has received a tax demand totalling Rs 22.5 crore from the Maharashtra State VAT Department, adding a fresh twist to its regulatory disclosures.
The order, issued by the Deputy Commissioner of State Tax, relates to the financial year 2021-22 and stems from the alleged non-submission of declaration forms required for availing concessional tax rates under the Central Sales Tax Act, 1956.
The total demand includes additional tax of Rs 9.65 crore, interest of Rs 10.42 crore and a penalty of Rs 2.41 crore. The order was dated March 30, 2026 and received by the company on April 1.
United Breweries said it is currently evaluating its legal options and is preparing to challenge the demand before the appropriate appellate authority. The company maintains that it has a strong case on merits.
In its disclosure, United Breweries Limited company secretary and compliance officer Nikhil Malpani indicated that the company does not expect any material financial impact, apart from a statutory pre-deposit required to file the appeal.
The development highlights the continued scrutiny around indirect tax compliance, particularly legacy issues linked to documentation under earlier tax regimes. For United Breweries, the immediate focus will be on contesting the demand while keeping any financial exposure in check.
Brands
Beardo unveils new film for Godfather fragrance
Danish Pandor leads cinematic campaign spotlighting power and comeback narrative.
MUMBAI: Power doesn’t always shout sometimes, it just walks back in and takes its seat. Beardo has rolled out a new campaign film for its flagship Godfather fragrance, bringing a cinematic lens to one of its most recognisable products. The film stars Danish Pandor, fresh off his portrayal of Uzair Baloch, and leans into a narrative built on quiet authority, tension, and a long-anticipated return.
Set in an abandoned den with an unclaimed throne, the film unfolds through whispers and restrained drama, culminating in a reveal that favours presence over proclamation. The storytelling mirrors the positioning of the Godfather fragrance itself, an enduring bestseller in the men’s grooming category, known for its bold, woody-spicy profile and appeal across age groups.
Rather than opting for a traditional feature-led approach, the brand leans into mood and mythology. Pandor’s performance anchors the film’s central idea of an anti-hero reclaiming control, aligning with the fragrance’s identity as a symbol of dominance and self-assured masculinity.
Conceptualised by Beardo’s in-house team, the campaign has been released across Instagram and Youtube, reflecting a broader shift towards content that blurs the line between advertising and entertainment particularly for digital-first audiences.
The fragrance itself blends mint, lemon, geranium, vetiver, and musk, designed to be long-lasting and versatile. But the campaign makes it clear: this isn’t just about scent notes, it’s about signalling presence.
In a category crowded with claims, Beardo’s latest play doesn’t try to be louder. It simply leans into the idea that the real ‘OG’ doesn’t announce itself, it’s felt.
