The Pataudi Palace, also known as Ibrahim Kothi, stands as a testament to the rich heritage and legacy of the Pataudi family. Situated in Haryana's Gurgaon district, this sprawling estate, valued at approximately INR 800 crores, boasts 150 rooms and is spread across 10 acres. While it serves as the ancestral home of Saif Ali Khan, the 10th Nawab of Pataudi, it's also a place filled with memories, meticulously preserved and enhanced by his mother, Sharmila Tagore.
Interestingly, despite Sharmila Tagore's significant role in maintaining and beautifying the palace, Saif Ali Khan revealed a curious detail: there are hardly any photographs of her displayed within its walls. This revelation highlights a different kind of presence – one that is felt rather than seen. While photos might capture a moment, Sharmila Tagore's influence is woven into the very fabric of the palace, evident in its gardens, decor, and overall ambiance.
Saif Ali Khan has openly acknowledged his mother's contribution to making Pataudi Palace what it is today. He emphasized that she played a huge part in preserving, restoring, and transforming Pataudi into arguably the prettiest little palace in India. While speaking to Cyrus Broacha on Homrun with Housing.com, Soha Ali Khan said while Saif owns the property, she got the generator room of the palace. She also mentioned that her mother Sharmila Tagore keeps tab on the maintenance expenses. Her touch is visible in every little detail, from the carefully curated gardens to the thoughtfully chosen blinds. Her aura permeates the palace, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for family and guests alike.
The Pataudi Palace has a rich history, dating back to Iftikhar Ali Khan, the last ruling Nawab of Pataudi, who built it for his wife. Designed by Robert Tor Russell in the style of colonial-era mansions, the palace was later passed down to Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi and his wife, Sharmila Tagore. After Mansoor Ali Khan's passing, the palace was rented to the Neemrana Hotels group from 2005 to 2014. Eventually, Saif Ali Khan bought back the ancestral estate with his hard-earned money. He shared in an interview that when his father passed away, the palace was rented to Neemrana Hotels. The owners, Aman Nath and Francis Wacziarg, told him he could have it back if he wanted, but he'd have to pay a lot of money.
Saif Ali Khan has expressed his commitment to preserving the palace's heritage. He plans to restore the palace and showcase its history, including putting up his father and grandfather's cricket bats and other memorabilia. He also recounted how his grandmother was against renting the palace out to a hotel, emphasizing the importance of its history and family connection. In a recent interaction with the India Today Conclave, Saif Ali Khan talked about Pataudi Palace and revealed that he plans to restore it to make it a museum. He revealed how his father rented out the palace to a hotel, and his grandmother was against it.
Today, Pataudi Palace serves not only as a family residence but also as a tangible link to the past. It's a place where generations connect, memories are created, and the legacy of the Pataudi family lives on. The palace has also served as a backdrop for several Bollywood and even Hollywood productions, further cementing its place in popular culture. Movies like "Veer Zara," "Mangal Pandey," and "Eat Love Pray" have all been filmed within its walls.
While Saif Ali Khan holds ownership of the palace, it is clear that Sharmila Tagore is its heart. Her dedication to preserving its beauty and history, even without seeking the spotlight, is a testament to her deep connection to the Pataudi family and their heritage.
