Saif Ali Khan’s Pataudi Palace built despite budget issues

Pataudi Palace, nestled in Haryana, India, stands as a grand emblem of royal heritage, modern-day family life, and Bollywood glamour. Owned by Bollywood actor Saif Ali Khan, the palace was originally built in 1935 by Saif’s grandfather, Iftikhar Ali Khan, to impress his future father-in-law and win the hand of Sajida Sultan, the Begum of Bhopal.

Over the years, this magnificent mansion has become a cherished family residence and a popular Bollywood filming location. Notably, it was featured in the 2023 film Animal, starring Ranbir Kapoor. Despite the palace’s royal roots, Saif revealed that it wasn’t immune to financial challenges. His sister, Soha Ali Khan, shared that their grandfather ran out of money during construction, leaving some parts of the estate with cement floors instead of the planned marble.

The palace has also seen its share of transitions. Saif’s father once leased the palace to a hotel chain, though the family later regained full control. Saif clarified that he didn’t have to buy back the estate, dismissing rumors that suggested otherwise.

Today, Pataudi Palace serves as a retreat for Saif, his wife Kareena Kapoor Khan, and their children. However, maintaining the mansion is no easy feat. Their mother, Sharmila Tagore, handles the finances, while Saif takes cost-saving measures like opting for whitewashing over full painting.