Sonam Kapoor and her husband Anand Ahuja have found themselves at the heart of a neighbourhood dispute in London’s upscale Notting Hill area following their acquisition of additional properties near a lavish mansion they purchased three years ago.
The couple bought the nearly 200-year-old mansion for approximately Rs 270 crore. They subsequently submitted ambitious renovation plans that would preserve the property’s historic exterior walls while introducing modern features, including a basement swimming pool and an underground basketball court. After nearly three years of planning objections and appeals, local authorities approved the redevelopment earlier this month.
Tensions in the area have since intensified. A company linked to the couple acquired five flats in the neighbouring Hillcrest residential building for around Rs 51 crore. Some local residents have expressed concerns that these properties might be converted into staff accommodation, or “servants’ quarters,” for the mansion.
A representative for Sonam Kapoor and Anand Ahuja told the Daily Mail that the actress had no direct involvement in the company that purchased the flats. The spokesperson clarified that the apartments were bought solely as an investment.
Residents quoted in the report indicated unease about voicing objections publicly, citing the couple’s influence. One homeowner described a sense of fear, noting that the influx of wealthy buyers was altering the established community. Concerns were also raised about potential threats during a private meeting, where continued resistance allegedly could lead to the flats being designated for social housing. Some neighbours reportedly worry about legal repercussions for speaking to the media.
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Beyond the mansion and the five newly acquired flats, the couple owns another apartment and a studio in Notting Hill. They also maintain residences in Mumbai and Delhi.
Anand Ahuja comes from the family behind Shahi Exports, a major Indian garment manufacturer. He founded the fashion label Bhaane and co-founded the sneaker retailer VegNonVeg.
Sonam Kapoor and Anand Ahuja tied the knot on May 8, 2018. The couple has two sons: Vayu, born in August 2022, and Rudralokh, born on March 29, 2026.
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