From The Begum Of Bhopal To Kareena Kapoor: The Royal Journey Of The 30-Carat Emerald That Sparked Controversy

Kareena Kapoor’s 30-Carat Emerald Pendant: The Bhopal Royal Heirloom At The Centre Of A Legal Dispute

Kareena Kapoor Khan recently made a striking festive fashion statement by bringing together vintage royal jewellery and contemporary styling. Wearing a silver kaftan with a coordinated turban, the actor opted for an ensemble that stood apart from the usual Diwali fashion choices. Styled by Rhea Kapoor, the look featured two remarkable heirloom pieces: a 30-carat emerald pendant and an antique diamond kalgi.

While the ensemble attracted considerable attention for its regal appeal, the emerald soon became the subject of controversy. The gemstone carries an intricate inscription of Ayat-ul-Kursi, a sacred verse from the Quran. Bhopal-based Congress spokesperson Abbas Hafeez has reportedly issued a legal notice to Kareena and her stylist, objecting to how the religious inscription was displayed. The notice seeks the removal of the photographs and a public apology.

The controversy has also brought the pendant’s fascinating history into the spotlight. The emerald is believed to have belonged to the Begum of Bhopal and reached Kareena through the family of her husband, Saif Ali Khan.

The Royal Legacy Of Kareena’s 30-Carat Emerald

The statement pendant features a finely carved inscription of Ayat-ul-Kursi, commonly known as the Throne Verse. Found in verse 255 of Surah Al-Baqarah, the passage describes Allah’s power, knowledge and sovereignty.

Rhea Kapoor shared details of the jewel in an Instagram post, identifying it as an heirloom of the Bhopal royal family that belongs to Kareena. Its journey into the actor’s collection is linked to Saif’s family heritage.

Saif Ali Khan’s grandmother, Sajida Sultan, was the daughter of Hamidullah Khan, the last ruling Nawab of Bhopal. Through this family connection, the emerald carries a legacy associated with the former royal household of Bhopal.

Saif Ali Khan Also Wore The 200-Year-Old Diamond Kalgi

Another highlight of Kareena’s look was an antique diamond kalgi, believed to be approximately 200 years old. The ornament once belonged to the Nawab of Bhopal and is another example of the royal treasures preserved by the family.

A kalgi is a decorative accessory traditionally worn on a turban. Usually embellished with precious stones and intricate craftsmanship, it was once an important part of royal attire.

The piece has a special connection to Kareena and Saif’s wedding as well. Saif reportedly wore the same kalgi during the ceremony. Kareena’s decision to style it with her turban for Diwali gave the historic ornament a fresh appearance while retaining its family significance.

For the festive occasion, Kareena paired the jewellery with a silver kaftan and matching turban by designer Punit Balana.

Beyond the fashion statement, the ensemble offered a glimpse into the Pataudi family’s royal connections. The emerald linked to the Begum of Bhopal and the centuries-old diamond kalgi associated with the Nawab turned Kareena’s Diwali look into a showcase of family heirlooms, even as the pendant became embroiled in a legal controversy.