The provincial government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa in Pakistan has approved Rs 33.8 million to restore and preserve two historic homes that once belonged to Indian cinema legends Dilip Kumar and Raj Kapoor. These buildings, located in Peshawar, are set to be converted into museums celebrating the lives and careers of the actors.

The approval was given during a high-level meeting on Wednesday, chaired by Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur and Tourism and Archaeology Advisor Zahid Khan Shinwari. This is part of the World Bank-supported KITE programme, which focuses on heritage conservation and tourism development in the province.

The homes of Dilip Kumar and Raj Kapoor have already been officially declared national heritage sites by the Pakistan government. However, they are currently in a damaged and neglected state.

According to Dr. Abdus Samad, Director of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Archaeology Department, both heritage homes will be converted into museums. These will showcase the personal and professional journeys of the two Bollywood greats—from their early days in Peshawar to their rise in Mumbai.

"The government intends to acquire the property and transform it into a museum that will showcase Dilip Kumar and Raj Kapoor’s journey from Peshawar to Mumbai, including a dedicated gallery," Samad said.

The goal is not just to restore the sites but also to protect them from any future demolition, ensuring their place as part of Pakistan’s cultural and historical identity. Other approved projects under this initiative include museum upgrades and improvements to archaeological sites across the province.

"This initiative will not only boost local tourism but also create new employment opportunities," added Samad, stressing the long-term value of investing in cultural heritage.

Chief Minister Gandapur emphasized the broader importance of these efforts:
"The cultural heritage of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa holds significance not only for Pakistan but for the entire world. Our government’s top priority is to preserve this heritage and ensure economic growth through tourism."

The restoration work on these projects is expected to begin soon, aiming to enhance facilities for both domestic and international tourists visiting the region.

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