Bollywood star buys stake in Rutland Square Spirits
Rutland Square Spirits has sold a 21% stake in its business to Indian actor and entrepreneur Dr Vivek Anand Oberoi.
The partnership will initially support the growth of the Rutland Square brand globally. Through the collaboration, Oberoi will become co-founder and chairman of the business.
Nishant Sharma, founder and CEO of Edinburgh-based Rutland Square Spirits, and Veenu Sharma, director, said in a joint statement: “We are delighted to welcome Dr Vivek Oberoi to the Rutland Square family. This collaboration is a testament to the strong and growing relationship between Scotland, India and the wider South Asian community.
“This partnership is more than just an investment – we look forward to creating something special, a place that celebrates artisanal craftsmanship, cultural richness, and the warm hospitality that both Scotland and India are known for.”
The company is also hoping to bring on more external investors in the coming months with the aim of securing more than £150 million (US$198.5m) in investment.
Rutland Square Spirits pays homage to the founder’s great-grandfather, Tej Ram Bawa, an Indian entrepreneur.
The company aims to ‘bridge the gap between the East and West’ through products such as its oolong white tea-infused spirit, made with tea from Dibrugarh, a city in India described as the world’s tea capital.
Furthermore, the company will invest in a new net zero luxury hotel in Edinburgh, which will include a wellness centre. The hotel would be the first hotel in Europe with hydrogen-powered facilities, Rutland Square said.
Bollywood star Oberoi has had roles in films such as Company and Saathiya. He is also the co-founder of multiple startups and his portfolio expands across industries such as fintech, media, entertainment, real estate and jewellery.
Oberoi signed the agreement with Rutland Square in Edinburgh on 21 March. Financial terms were not disclosed.
“I am thrilled to join Rutland Square,” Oberoi added. “This project represents more than just a development – it is an exciting new chapter for us. Scotland is a beautiful country with deep-rooted traditions and a strong Indian business community. I look forward to working closely with the team to bring this vision to life.
“This marks a new chapter in Scotland’s hospitality sector, promising a future of sustainability, heritage, and world-class experiences. I am excited to begin the work of bringing it to life.”
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