Lincoln House: Mumbai's ₹750 Crore Historic Mansion's Legal Saga & Ownership
Mumbai, often hailed as the "City of Dreams," is globally recognized for its soaring real estate prices and the opulent lifestyles of Bollywood celebrities, industrialists, and business magnates. Amidst the city's array of premium skyscrapers, stunning mansions, and heritage bungalows, one property stands out for its ultra-luxury and controversy: the iconic Lincoln House. This sprawling historic mansion, located in the prestigious Breach Candy/Bhulabhai Desai Road area, has become a case study in luxury real estate due to complex legal battles that have spanned years.
A Historic Gem with Royal Connections
Originally known as Wankaner House, the property was built in 1933 for the Maharaja of Wankaner by British architect Claude Batley. Spanning approximately 50,000 square feet, this lavish mansion showcases Indo-Saracenic design blended with Art Deco interior elements, reflecting the architectural elegance of pre-Independence India. In 1957, Amarsinhji Banesinhji leased it to the U.S. Government for a nominal amount of 18 lakhs, transforming it into the U.S. Consulate General's residence and renaming it Lincoln House.
The Record-Setting Sale to Cyrus Poonawalla
In 2015, billionaire industrialist Cyrus Poonawalla made headlines by agreeing to purchase Lincoln House from the U.S. Government for about ₹750 crore (approximately US$113 million). This transaction marked one of the most expensive residential property deals in India's history, setting a benchmark for luxury real estate. For high-net-worth individuals like Poonawalla, such estates are not merely residences but legacy assets that symbolize prestige and historical value.
Ongoing Legal and Bureaucratic Disputes
Despite the sale agreement nearly a decade ago, the transfer of ownership remains incomplete due to a tangled web of legal and bureaucratic issues. The dispute involves the U.S. Government, Indian Government, and Maharashtra authorities, primarily over land rights and defense estate clearance requirements. Additionally, the property's heritage classification as a Grade-III structure and its previous international ownership have introduced approval challenges, complicating any potential renovations or upgrades.
Architectural Splendor and Heritage Constraints
Lincoln House is celebrated for its architectural beauty and prime location overlooking the Arabian Sea in South Mumbai. Key features include:
- Low-rise, Horizontal Planning: The mansion's expansive layout emphasizes privacy while fostering openness and a visual connection with nature.
- Art Deco Detailing: Subtle interior elements reflect the 1930s transitional phase when global design trends began influencing Indian luxury homes.
- Grand Exterior: Characterized by tall columns, wide verandas, symmetrical façades, high ceilings, and large halls designed for ceremonial living.
- Natural Light and Ventilation: Large verandas and strategic room spacing allow for ample daylight and cross-ventilation, enhancing comfort.
However, as a protected heritage structure, the owner must adhere to strict conservation guidelines for any restoration, impacting both timelines and costs. Visible signs of ageing in certain sections highlight years of neglect and limited maintenance, yet the property remains a symbol of real estate excellence.
Current Status and Real Estate Impact
Today, Lincoln House continues to be owned by Cyrus Poonawalla, though the unresolved legal issues cast a shadow over its future. The mansion's story underscores the complexities of high-stakes real estate in Mumbai, where historical significance, luxury, and bureaucratic hurdles intertwine. Despite its challenges, Lincoln House endures as a landmark, reminding us of the city's dynamic blend of history, wealth, and ambition.
