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 landmarks, declared national heritage sites by the Pakistani government in 2016, are now at risk of collapse due to neglect and recent natural disasters.
The century-old Kapoor Haveli, nestled in the Qissa Khwani Bazar neighborhood, has suffered significant structural damage from continuous rains and tremors. Similarly, Dilip Kumar's ancestral home, once a vibrant Peshawari building, now resembles a deserted ruin with crumbling walls and caved-in roofs.
The Neglect and the Need for Preservation
Despite the government's recognition of these buildings 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 progress has stalled.
Shakil Waheedullah, secretary of the Cultural Heritage Council, KPK, highlights the government's abandonment of these structures, which are rapidly deteriorating. He emphasizes the urgent need for preservation, especially with the upcoming rainy season and the vulnerability caused by the recent earthquake.
A Lack of Resources and Official Statements
A provincial government official, speaking anonymously, attributes the lack of progress to a shortage of funds and resources. While the government claims to be committed to converting the heritage buildings into museums, residents and activists are calling for more than just official statements.
Abid Hussain, who runs a business near Raj Kapoor's haveli, expresses his concerns about the building's dilapidated state. He believes that the heavy rains and strong earthquake tremors have left the structure dangerously weakened, posing a significant risk of collapse.
The Historical Significance
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 renowned Kapoor clan to enter the film industry. Built by his father, Dewan Basheswarnath Kapoor, between 1918 and 1922, this haveli witnessed the early years of Raj Kapoor and his uncle Trilok Kapoor.
A Call for Action
As we reflect on the potential loss of these architectural jewels, it becomes evident that the preservation of our cultural heritage requires more than just declarations. The situation in Peshawar serves as a stark reminder of the importance of timely action and adequate resources to protect our shared history.
In my opinion, the neglect of these ancestral homes is a missed opportunity to celebrate and honor the rich cultural contributions of Dilip Kumar and Raj Kapoor. It's time for a collective effort to ensure that these landmarks are not just preserved but also transformed into vibrant spaces that educate and inspire future generations.
