Government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Begins Two-Year Conservation Project of Bollywood Legends’ Historic Ancestral Homes
The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has officially launched the long-anticipated restoration of two iconic historical properties in Peshawar. These include the ancestral homes of legendary Indian cinema icons Dilip Kumar and Raj Kapoor. Both structures will be transformed into dedicated heritage museums over the next two years.
According to the Directorate of Archaeology and Museums, which is overseeing the project, this initiative is a milestone in preserving South Asia’s shared cinematic and cultural history. The total project budget is set at ₹70 million, with funds allocated for structural rehabilitation and aesthetic restoration.
The Project Will Restore the Architectural Integrity of the Heritage Sites to Their Original Colonial-Era Style
The restoration of the Dilip Kumar Raj Kapoor heritage homes museum will focus on preserving the original architecture of both buildings. These residences, located in the historic Qissa Khwani Bazaar of Peshawar, represent colonial-era craftsmanship and architectural style.
Dr. Abdus Samad, Director of Archaeology, confirmed that the goal is to maintain historical accuracy. Both homes will retain their original layouts, wooden structures, and design elements once work is completed. Restoration specialists and historians will consult archival materials and old photographs to guide the effort.
The provincial government also stated that advanced conservation techniques will be employed to ensure long-term structural integrity and weather resilience. This is crucial due to past damages caused by rain, earthquakes, and poor maintenance.
Transformation into Museums Will Highlight the Cinematic Legacy and Personal Histories of the Two Hindi Cinema Icons
Upon completion, the Dilip Kumar Raj Kapoor heritage homes museum will become dedicated cultural and educational spaces. The museums will showcase photographs, rare memorabilia, and historical exhibits detailing the lives and achievements of Dilip Kumar and Raj Kapoor.
Dilip Kumar, born as Mohammad Yusuf Khan in Peshawar in 1922, went on to become a legend in Indian cinema. Similarly, Raj Kapoor—born in the nearby Kapoor Haveli in 1924—remains one of the most influential actors and filmmakers in Hindi film history.
Each museum will narrate their early years in Peshawar, personal journeys to Bombay, and lifelong contributions to cinema. Curators plan to include archival film posters, recorded interviews, and artifacts from their acting careers.
Restoration Declared a Key Step to Boost Cross-Border Cultural Tourism and Local Employment in the Region
Zahid Khan Shinwari, Advisor to the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government on Tourism, emphasized the significance of the project in cultural and economic terms. He noted that the Dilip Kumar Raj Kapoor heritage homes museum initiative will drive tourism in the region and create employment.
“With assistance from the World Bank, these museums will transform Khyber Pakhtunkhwa into a global heritage tourism destination,” he said. Officials estimate that thousands of domestic and international visitors will travel to Peshawar to explore the museums once operational.
The museums are expected to generate job opportunities for local artisans, guides, historians, and service industry workers. Additionally, the revival of historic properties may encourage investment in neighboring heritage sites.
Longstanding Dream Realized as the Properties Are Revived After Years of Disrepair and Ownership Disputes
Both ancestral homes have stood in a state of neglect for decades due to ownership disputes and lack of funding. In 2014, then-Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif declared the properties national heritage sites under the Antiquities Act. However, it took nearly a decade for the restoration process to gain momentum.
Kapoor Haveli, originally constructed between 1918 and 1922 by Dewan Basheswarnath Kapoor, had been at risk of collapse. Likewise, Dilip Kumar’s residence had faced multiple threats of demolition. The provincial government stepped in after extensive negotiations with private owners and heritage advocates.
Officials from the archaeology department confirmed that acquisition of the properties was finalized in 2021. Restoration began in July 2025 after funds were released in full for the ₹70 million project.
Public and Heritage Experts Welcome the Initiative as a Symbol of Cross-Cultural Respect and Shared South Asian History
Local historians, cultural activists, and Bollywood fans from across the subcontinent have welcomed the launch of the Dilip Kumar Raj Kapoor heritage homes museum. They see it as a significant gesture of mutual respect and cultural acknowledgment between India and Pakistan.
“These homes are more than just buildings. They are chapters of shared cinematic and human history,” said Pakistani heritage expert Yasir Khan. “Their preservation promotes regional harmony through culture and memory.”
Public sentiment in Peshawar is also optimistic. Many residents expressed pride that their city will now be home to world-class museums dedicated to Bollywood’s golden age.
The launch of the Dilip Kumar and Raj Kapoor heritage homes museum project marks a new chapter for Peshawar. With active government support, expert oversight, and community involvement, the museums are expected to become international tourist attractions and cultural landmarks.
By honoring the legacies of Dilip Kumar and Raj Kapoor, Pakistan is preserving more than architecture—it is preserving history. This initiative will not only protect precious heritage but also strengthen cross-border cultural appreciation and economic opportunity in the region.
