The allure of Shah Rukh Khan's iconic Mannat bungalow is not solely confined to its present-day superstar resident.
Recently, The Paperclip, a digital media platform, unraveled a fascinating historical connection between the Bollywood legend and a group of influential figures who shaped the world of art in modern India. Against the backdrop of the resounding success of Shah Rukh Khan's film Jawan, which has raked in over ₹500 crore at the global box office, this intriguing historical narrative has come to light.
Also read: Inside Shah Rukh Khan's paradise: Take a peek at the glamorous mansion, stunning cars, and more
While the @iamsrk frenzy has gripped the whole country, we are hung up on a strange connection between the superstar and a group of people who helped shape the world of art for modern India. It included a man who had escaped Nazi-occupied Austria. Here's the story. 1/22 pic.twitter.com/2BuBP4Opg3 — The Paperclip (@Paperclip_In) September 11, 2023
The story weaves back to the 19th century when the Raja of Mandi, Bijai Sen, constructed a property for his wife on the Bandstand in Bandra, which he aptly named ‘Villa Vienna’. Fast forward to the 20th century, and the property changed hands, passing to a Parsi gentleman named Maneckji Batliwala, who happened to be the maternal grandfather of Kaikhushru Minochair Gandhy, affectionately known as Kekoo Gandhy.
It all begins with two houses, one called Villa Vienna, now a place of pilgrimage, standing on the Bandstand in Bandra; the other, almost next to it, known as Kekee Manzil, a place which holds a tapestry of art and a little bit of important history. 2/22 pic.twitter.com/iLJk4VR6bx — The Paperclip (@Paperclip_In) September 11, 2023
But the tale doesn't end with Kekoo Gandhy; it branches into the realm of art and history. In 1938, amidst mounting tensions in Europe, particularly within the Jewish community due to Nazi persecution, Walter Langhammer, a talented Austrian painter, sought refuge in Bombay. His anti-Nazi sentiments and his wife's Jewish heritage compelled him to flee. In Bombay, Langhammer's profound knowledge of art led to his appointment as the Art Director of the Times of India.
It was during this time that Walter Langhammer crossed paths with Kekoo Gandhy, a prominent figure in the Indian art world. The two bonded over their shared passion for art, and Gandhy was particularly impressed by Langhammer's enthusiasm for Indian art.
This connection laid the foundation for significant developments in the art scene. Kekoo Gandhy also met Roger Van Damme, a Belgian with an idea to tap into the Indian market for frames. This idea resonated with Kekoo, leading to the establishment of the Chemical Moulding Manufacturing Company, later known as Chemould.
Kekoo Gandhy's vision extended beyond business; he was determined to provide a platform for Indian artists to thrive. He scouted and promoted young talents, played a pivotal role in creating the Jehangir Art Gallery, the National Gallery of Modern Art in Bombay, and the Lalit Kala Academy. He even opened his home, Kekee Manzil, to budding artists, including renowned painter M.F. Hussain.
The legacy of Kekoo Gandhy lives on as his efforts continue to shape the Indian art world. His influence can be seen in the thriving art community he nurtured. As his daughter Behroze released a documentary on his life in 2020, his enduring impact on the world of art is celebrated.
Moreover, the historical connection leads to the property that is now Shah Rukh Khan's iconic residence, Mannat. The house, originally known as Villa Vienna, underwent transformation under Khan's ownership, becoming the splendid Mannat we know today. Shah Rukh Khan fondly recalls that when he acquired the property, the mansion required significant renovation.
Also read: Shah Rukh Khan's epic reaction to fans dancing to 'Zinda Banda' in Peru goes viral
