At sunrise on Tuesday, November 18, just as most of Hyderabad was waking up, officers of the Income Tax (IT) Investigation Wing were already fanning out across the city. Their destinations were the kitchens, corporate offices, and homes linked to three of the city’s most iconic biryani giants— Pista House, Mehfil, and Shah Ghouse.
What unfolded throughout the day was one of the largest coordinated tax operations the city's hospitality sector has witnessed in years. Thirty locations were searched simultaneously, including main branches, accounting hubs, staff quarters, and the residences of owners, directors, and senior personnel.
For many employees, the action began with the sudden arrival of officials demanding ledgers, digital records, and branch-wise accounts that would reveal the true financial picture behind Hyderabad’s busiest kitchens.
The IT teams had arrived prepared. Investigators had previously gathered indications of suppressed turnover, unexplained cash movement, and disparities between what the outlets declared and what they were reportedly earning on the ground. Tuesday’s raids were intended to settle those questions.
In Rajendranagar, the focus tightened around Pista House. Multiple teams arrived at the homes of owner Mohammad Abdul Mazeed and his relative Mohammad Mustan. Four teams entered Mazeed’s residence alone, combing through documents room by room. Officers examined hard drives, seized digital storage devices, and compared the brand’s official books with the revenues its 44-outlet network is believed to generate, especially during the lucrative Haleem season.
As the day progressed, sources suggested that investigators were probing possible hawala routes, fake entries, and suspicious financial transactions. Staff accommodation attached to Pista House was also searched.
Mehfil, which has rapidly expanded to 15 outlets and is pushing into overseas markets, also drew scrutiny. Officers examined whether or not its swift growth aligns with its declared financials. Shah Ghouse was reportedly probed for transaction trails and revenue flows.
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