Bollywood actor Saif Ali Khan has addressed circulating rumors that suggest the iconic Pataudi Palace is being converted into a museum. The palace, steeped in history and sentiment, has been a subject of public fascination ever since it was regained by the Pataudi family from a private hotel chain. Khan, in a candid conversation, dispelled any such claims, emphasizing that the palace holds immense personal value for him and his family.
A Royal Legacy
The Pataudi Palace, also known as Ibrahim Kothi, has been the ancestral home of the Pataudi family for generations. Located near Gurgaon, Haryana, the mansion boasts colonial architecture, sprawling gardens, and an air of historical grandeur. It was originally built in 1900 by Saif’s grandfather, Iftikhar Ali Khan Pataudi. Over the years, the palace has hosted numerous Bollywood celebrities, family events, and is a beloved retreat for the Pataudi family.
Saif Ali Khan, along with his mother, actress Sharmila Tagore, has often spoken about the emotional connection they share with the property. In recent interviews, Saif has been open about his efforts to maintain the palace and uphold its legacy.
The Rumors
In the last few months, several media outlets had reported that Saif Ali Khan was considering turning the palace into a museum to make the estate accessible to the public. These speculations suggested that the palace, which is rarely open to outsiders, would house personal collections, artifacts, and memorabilia of the Pataudi lineage, including cricketing relics of his father, the legendary Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi.
However, Saif has now categorically denied these rumors. “The Pataudi Palace is a part of our family’s heritage. There’s no plan to convert it into a museum. It is our home and will remain so. The idea of turning it into a museum has never crossed our minds,” he clarified.
An Intimate Family Space
Khan went on to explain how deeply the family cherishes the palace and the memories it holds. He mentioned that the property serves as a refuge for them away from the hustle of Mumbai. “The Pataudi Palace is a private space where we, as a family, come together, relax, and create memories. It’s more than just a building; it’s part of our soul,” he added.
Fans of the royal estate will, for now, have to continue admiring its beauty from afar, as the family remains firm in keeping the palace as a personal sanctuary.