Saif to be crowned 'Nawaab' at the end of October

For purely sentimental reasons, the residents of Pataudi are keen to have the star take on the title of the Tenth Nawab to continue the family tradition.

Saif Ali Khan will soon be crowned the tenth Nawab of Pataudi. Following his father Mansoor Ali Khan's death on September 22, 2011, Saif, in keeping with tradition, will become the head of the princely Pataudi state in Haryana.

A source revealed, "The people of the princely state were keen to crown their chhote nawab. Princely states were abolished in 1971, and Mansoor Ali Khan was the last Nawab who reigned from 1952 till 1971. For purely sentimental reasons, the people of Pataudi wanted Saif to be the crowned Nawab."

Reluctant to step into his father's shoes, Saif said, "These titles are no longer recognised by the government. And rightly so, if you ask. But the people in our villages are sentimental about these things. The ceremony is more of a family tradition and hugely symbolic for the people of Pataudi."

Pataudi has been ruled by Saif's forefathers since the early 19th century. The Nawabs, who were originally the governors of a province during the Mughal era, continued to rule princely states under the British rule.

Talking about his responsibilities as the new Nawab, Saif said, "Being crowned the Nawab means taking care of my father's estate, our ancestral home and the trust. More importantly, I will have to continue the work he was doing for the villagers. I have to look after the eye hospital and other charitable institutions father was managing."

Saif, however, refuses to use the title of 'Nawab'. "It is an anachronism. And also, I would like to remember my father as the last Nawab of Pataudi," said the son.

"The event will take place in Pataudi, of course. It is scheduled for the end of this month, 40 days after father passed away," added Saif.