'A Joint Decision': Priyanka Chopra's Former Restaurant Partner Denies Being 'Blindsided' Over Actress' 'Abrupt' Exit From Business
Priyanka Chopra's "abrupt" exit left the co-owner devastated, according to a report.
Priyanka Chopra's decision to step away from her partnership at New York-based restaurant, Sona, "was one that we carefully considered together," restaurateur Maneesh K. Goyal told RadarOnline.com in a statement after a sensational report claimed it left him in tatters.
The Love Again actress suddenly bailed on the eatery famed for its timeless Indian fare, sources close to the situation said. However, Goyal confirmed he was "not blindsighted nor am I devastated," saying that couldn't be further from the truth.
"Rather, this was a joint decision and Priyanka and I remain not in only touch but very close (we are in constant touch.)"
The actress confirmed she stepped away in a statement via her rep in August.
Sona opened its doors in 2021 while the Covid-19 restrictions were still in place, having since grown a massive following on social media with the help of content shared by the Citadel star after she posted photos and also hosted a few family gatherings.
Goyal, co-founder of Sona as well as the actress' friend and former business partner, previously told PEOPLE that working with Chopra "has been a dream come true."
Sona opened in 2021 and offered timeless Indian fare.
"We're grateful for her partnership and support," he continued. "While she will no longer be involved as a creative partner moving forward, she remains in the Sona family and we are excited for our respective new chapters ahead."
Chopra helped inspire the design, menu, music, and even the name prior to her exit.
Goyal was very outspoken about her contributions over the years, stating that she helped inspire the design, menu, music, and even the name.
RadarOnline.com has reached out to a rep for Chopra for comment.
The 'Love Again' actress will be focusing on other ventures going forward.
Amid the news that she was stepping away, a representative for the actress said "bringing Sona to life will invariably be a proud and significant moment in her career."
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"Priyanka has always endeavored to bring Indian culture to the fore through storytelling, whether that’s via engaging content for film and TV, or a beautifully plated dish that embodies the haute cuisine of India," the rep added.
"Stepping away from Sona allows her to broaden these ambitions on a more global scale, and she's excited about the possibilities that await."
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