Saif Ali Khan’s Legacy in Question: Properties Worth ₹15,000 Crore Face Government Claim

Saif Ali Khan, Bollywood’s beloved “Nawab,” finds himself embroiled in a legal battle involving family properties worth an estimated ₹15,000 crore. The Madhya Pradesh High Court recently lifted a stay on these properties, which were previously protected under a 2015 order. As per the Enemy Property Act, 1968, properties linked to individuals who migrated to Pakistan after Partition can be taken over by the Indian government.

The properties in question include Saif’s childhood home, Flag Staff House, and other iconic estates such as Noor-Us-Sabah Palace, Dar-Us-Salam, Bungalow of Habibi, Ahmedabad Palace, and the Kohefiza Property.

The Historical Context

The family’s royal legacy traces back to Hamidullah Khan, the Nawab of Bhopal, who had three daughters. One of them migrated to Pakistan, a fact now being cited to claim these properties under the Enemy Property Act. Saif, the grandson of Hamidullah Khan’s daughter who remained in India, holds significant ties to this legacy.

The Iconic Pataudi Palace

Among the properties, the Pataudi Palace stands as a symbol of family pride. Built in 1935 by Saif’s grandfather, it was a testament of love for his future father-in-law. However, financial constraints during construction meant some areas were left unfinished, with parts of the flooring remaining cement instead of marble.

After being leased to a hotel chain by Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi, Saif’s father, the palace was eventually reclaimed by Saif. In a 2021 interview with Bollywood Hungama, Saif clarified, “Contrary to reports, I didn’t have to buy it back—I already owned it. It was a fair financial arrangement.”

Today, the palace serves as Saif’s summer retreat and doubles as a film shooting location, preserving its grandeur while contributing to its upkeep.

A Family Bond

Soha Ali Khan, Saif’s sister, has often shared anecdotes about the palace. She revealed that their grandmother, Sajida Sultan, was the Begum of Bhopal, while their grandfather, the Nawab of Pataudi, built the palace to win Sajida's father’s approval for marriage.

The Road Ahead

This legal battle over royal properties has garnered attention not just for its monetary value but for its historical and cultural significance. Saif Ali Khan, while navigating the challenges, continues to hold onto the legacy and stories tied to these estates.