They call Saif Ali Khan the ‘chote Nawab’ and where there is a Nawab, there is a palace; in this case – the Pataudi Palace. Nestled in the beautiful landscape of Gurgaon, Haryana, the Pataudi Palace, also known as Ibrahim Kothi, is Saif Ali Khan’s ancestral home. It is a true architectural marvel, spread over 10 acres and worth ₹800 crore.
It serves as a vacation home for the couple and their kids Taimur and Jeh, whenever they want to take a break from the hustle and bustle of Mumbai life.
The history, tales, and beauty of Saif Ali Khan’s Pataudi Palace
The historical roots of Pataudi Palace date back to 1900, when the construction of the regal architecture began. British architect Robert Tor Russell and Australian architect Carl Moltiz Von Hentz took it upon their shoulders to create a magnificent piece. Reports suggest finally, the palace was built in 1935 by Iftikhar Ali Khan. He was the last ruling Nawab of Pataudi and carries a rich legacy.
When the mammoth-sized palace got ready, it wasn’t easy to take care of its maintenance. It involved a lot of manpower and cost. So the palace was leased to Neermana Hotels, and the chain operated it as a luxury property until 2014.
However, in an interview with Vogue India, Saif revealed that the palace symbolizes his connection to his late father, Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi, the last Nawab of Pataudi. He was meant to inherit it after his father’s demise, but to fully reclaim the property, he had to buy the palace back from Neermana Hotels.
Inside Saif Ali Khan’s Pataudi Palace
Architectural Digest, the Pataudi Palace has 150 rooms – including seven bedrooms, seven dressing rooms, and seven billiard rooms. Further, there is a large dining area; the palace is complimented with an outdoor pool, a separate farming area, royal chambers, and several multi-purpose rooms.
Further, if we talk about the interiors of the Pataudi Palace, then words can’t do justice. Vintage chandeliers, antique furniture, awe-inspiring artwork, and regal family portraits brighten up the property. Then there are intricate archways, detailed carvings, and impressive domes that prove the palace is a heaven for architectural aficionados.
Last but not least, we can’t even begin to talk about the lush green garden, which is best suited for hosting large gatherings in the open air. They are best suited for family picnics as well. Saif Ali Khan, Kareena Kapoor Khan, and their loved ones enjoy soaking in the sun at the garden front.
Real to reel
The beautiful hallways of Pataudi Palace have served as a backdrop for numerous films. The latest one that was shot in Pataudi Palace was Ranbir Kapoor’s ‘Animal.’ Further, the property was also seen in ‘Rang De Basanti,’ ‘Veer-Zaara’ and other movies.
