Construction efforts commence at Dilip Kumar and Raj Kapoor's residences in Pakistan
Peshawar's Cultural Landmarks to Transform into Museums
The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government in Pakistan has embarked on an ambitious project to restore and convert the ancestral homes of legendary Indian actors, Dilip Kumar and Raj Kapoor, into museums. The project, funded by the World Bank and overseen by the Directorate of Archaeology and Museums, is expected to revolutionise the tourism sector in the province.
The project, which commenced in July 2025, involves both structural and aesthetic restoration of the buildings located in the historic Qissa Khwani Bazaar area of Peshawar. After completion, these museums or heritage museums will serve as a focal point for tourists worldwide, particularly those interested in film history and cultural heritage.
The total budget for the project is approximately PKR 70 million, and it is scheduled for completion within two years. The aim is to preserve these important cultural landmarks while boosting local tourism and creating new employment opportunities.
The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government is committed to safeguarding the province's historical and cultural heritage while promoting heritage tourism. The reconstruction and renovation work on the ancestral homes of Dilip Kumar and Raj Kapoor are a testament to this commitment.
Funding and Timeline
The project is funded and overseen by the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government with a total budget of PKR 70 million. The timeline for completion is set at two years from the start date, which is July 2025, making the projected completion date mid-2027.
Tourism Impact
The restoration of these cultural landmarks will help preserve important cultural heritage, boost local tourism, and enhance Peshawar's profile as a cultural destination, especially for cinema enthusiasts from South Asia. The conversion of the buildings into museums dedicated to the lives and cinematic careers of Dilip Kumar and Raj Kapoor is anticipated to draw fans and cultural tourists to Peshawar.
In conclusion, the project is a significant cultural preservation initiative aimed at boosting tourism in Peshawar. The ancestral homes of Dilip Kumar and Raj Kapoor are being transformed into museums, which will likely stimulate tourism in the city and contribute to the province's economic growth.
This project, transforming the ancestral homes of Dilip Kumar and Raj Kapoor into museums, is set to attract not only history enthusiasts but also cinema lovers from South Asia. As a result, the tourism sector in Peshawar is anticipated to experience growth. The fusion of the city's cultural heritage with entertainment, represented by movies and television, will create an engaging experience for tourists, which may also include music and popular culture related to celebrities. The project, running alongside traditional cultural landmarks, aims to enrich Peshawar's offerings beyond historical artifacts, appealing to the diverse interests of modern tourists.
