Once a symbol of Vijay Mallya's extravagant lifestyle and high-profile parties, the Kingfisher Villa in Goa has been reborn as the King's Mansion, now under the ownership of Bollywood actor and entrepreneur Sachiin Joshi and his wife, former actress Urvashi Sharma. The couple purchased the sprawling estate in 2017 for ₹73.01 crore after it was seized in connection with a ₹900 crore loan default involving IDBI Bank, marking a significant shift from controversy to cinematic charm.
Located in the upscale beach village of Candolim in North Goa, the villa spans across three acres with over 12,000 square feet of built-up space. Its prime location, along the route to Fort Aguada and approximately 20 km from Panaji, makes it a coveted property. The villa boasts luxurious amenities, including private swimming pools, manicured lawns, artificial ponds, and spacious dance floors, all testaments to its history as a party destination for Mallya and his inner circle.
Sachiin Joshi, known for his roles in films like "Azaan" and "Jackpot," is also a successful businessman and the son of Jagdish Joshi, head of the JMJ Group of Industries. He owns Viiking Ventures, which has interests ranging from alcohol (including King's Beer) to hospitality and wellness. This existing connection to the "King" brand played a significant role in the decision to rename the villa as King's Mansion.
Joshi acquired the Goa-based Kings Beer brand from Impala Distillery and Brewery in 2015 for ₹90 crore. Speaking about the renaming, Joshi stated, "Today is the day I open the gates to the world. The property has been coronated as the 'King's Mansion'… the brand connection from 'King's Beer' and the inherent grandeur of the property made the choice.” He has expressed plans to create an unparalleled experience at the property, something that has never been done before in India, denoting class and innovation.
The Kingfisher Villa was initially held under United Breweries Holdings (UBH), the parent company of the now-defunct Kingfisher Airlines. After Mallya's financial troubles and subsequent departure from India in 2016, a consortium of banks led by the State Bank of India seized the estate. Despite three failed auction attempts, Joshi finally acquired the property in 2017 through a private treaty.
The acquisition and renaming of the Kingfisher Villa to King's Mansion signify more than just a change in ownership; it represents a shift in the narrative. Once synonymous with Vijay Mallya's opulent and often scandalous lifestyle, the villa now embodies a blend of cinematic allure and entrepreneurial spirit under the ownership of Sachiin Joshi and Urvashi Sharma. While Mallya continues to face legal battles in the UK, his former Goa estate has embarked on a new chapter, promising a unique and luxurious experience for its future guests.
