Peshawar’s rich cultural history is getting a fresh breath of life. After the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government failed to provide the necessary funding, the World Bank has taken charge of restoring the historic homes of legendary actors Dilip Kumar and Raj Kapoor. These homes, located in the heart of Peshawar, hold immense significance as they represent the shared heritage of Pakistan and India.
Back in 2020, the provincial government had declared both properties as heritage sites and announced plans to restore them. However, due to a lack of funding, the project couldn’t move forward. The World Bank has now stepped in under the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Integrated Tourism Development Project (KITE), giving hope that these historic sites will finally be preserved.
Abdul Samad, the Director of Archaeology and Museums Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, shared with Jang that this financial support is a major milestone. He explained that the restoration of these houses will not only honor the legacies of these iconic film personalities but also highlight the shared cultural history of the subcontinent.
Once the restoration is complete, these historic homes will be open to tourists, becoming a symbol of cultural preservation. The project is expected to boost tourism in Peshawar, allowing visitors to explore the legacy of these iconic stars while celebrating the city’s rich history.
With this step, the World Bank is ensuring that Peshawar’s heritage remains alive, connecting generations to the golden era of cinema and shared traditions of the region.
