The fate of two iconic ancestral homes in Peshawar, once belonging to legendary Indian actors Dilip Kumar and Raj Kapoor, hangs in the balance. These historic structures, declared national heritage sites by the Pakistani government in 2016, are now at risk of collapse due to neglect and natural disasters.
The century-old Kapoor Haveli, located in the heart of Peshawar's Qissa Khwani Bazar, has suffered significant structural damage. Continuous rains and recent tremors have left the building vulnerable, with its once-grand structure now a shadow of its former self. Similarly, Dilip Kumar's ancestral home, a typical Peshawari building, has fallen into disrepair, with rooms caving in and walls crumbling with each rainfall.
The Neglect and the Need for Preservation
Despite the government's recognition of these houses as national heritage, there has been a notable lack of action to preserve them. In 2021-22, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government approved funds for the purchase and conversion of these houses into museums, but over five years later, there has been no significant progress.
Shakil Waheedullah, secretary of the Cultural Heritage Council, KPK, highlights the government's abandonment of these historical landmarks. He emphasizes the rapid deterioration of the structures, which are now in an alarming state.
A Race Against Time
With the pre-monsoon season approaching, experts and locals are drawing attention to the urgent need for preservation. The buildings, already weakened by continuous rains and tremors, are at risk of further damage and potential collapse.
Abid Hussain, a local resident, expresses his concerns about the dilapidated condition of Raj Kapoor's haveli. He warns that the deep cracks in the walls and foundations could lead to a major accident, emphasizing the urgency of the situation.
A Rich Cultural Legacy
The Kapoor Haveli holds a special place in the history of Indian cinema. It was the birthplace of Prithviraj Kapoor, the first member of the Kapoor clan to enter the film industry, and the home of Raj Kapoor and his uncle Trilok Kapoor. The house, built between 1918 and 1922 by Dewan Basheswarnath Kapoor, was once an architectural jewel of Peshawar.
The Way Forward
The situation calls for immediate action. While the provincial government has approved funds for restoration, the lack of progress is concerning. It is crucial to recognize the cultural significance of these houses and the potential they hold as museums dedicated to the legacy of Raj Kapoor and Dilip Kumar.
In my opinion, the preservation of these ancestral homes is not just about saving physical structures but also about honoring the rich cultural heritage they represent. It is a reminder of the shared history and the impact these actors had on the film industry, transcending borders and uniting people through their art.
The challenge now is to turn official statements into tangible actions, ensuring that these historic buildings are restored and preserved for future generations to appreciate and learn from.
