In a significant legal victory for Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan, the Supreme Court on Tuesday dismissed a petition challenging the Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) clearance granted for the expansion of his iconic Mumbai residence, Mannat. The ruling paves the way for the actor to proceed with plans to add two more floors to the sea-facing bungalow.
The matter was heard by a Bench comprising Chief Justice of India Surya Kant, Justice Joymalya Bagchi, and Justice V. Mohana, which declined to interfere with an earlier decision of the National Green Tribunal (NGT). The tribunal had previously rejected objections against the CRZ clearance, holding that there were no grounds to invalidate the approval.
With the Supreme Court refusing to entertain the challenge, the legal hurdles surrounding the proposed expansion have effectively come to an end. The decision is being seen as a major relief for Shah Rukh Khan, whose residence is one of Mumbai's most recognizable landmarks and a popular attraction for fans from across India and around the world.
Mannat, located in Mumbai's upscale Bandra locality, has become synonymous with the Bollywood superstar over the years. Thousands of admirers gather outside the bungalow on special occasions, including Shah Rukh Khan's birthday and major festivals, hoping to catch a glimpse of the actor. The property is regarded as one of the city's most iconic celebrity homes.
The dispute centered on the Coastal Regulation Zone clearance required for the proposed addition of two floors to the heritage property. The petitioner had questioned the legality of the environmental approval, arguing that the expansion required closer scrutiny. However, both the National Green Tribunal and now the Supreme Court found no reason to interfere with the clearance granted by the competent authorities.
The latest verdict reinforces the validity of the approvals already issued and allows the renovation and expansion plans to move forward in accordance with applicable laws and regulations. While details of the construction timeline have not been officially announced, the ruling removes the final legal obstacle to the project.
The judgment has attracted widespread attention among fans and the film industry alike, as Mannat remains one of India's most celebrated celebrity residences. With the Supreme Court's decision, Shah Rukh Khan can now proceed with the approved expansion, subject to compliance with all statutory conditions and building regulations.
The ruling also underscores the judiciary's decision to uphold the findings of the National Green Tribunal, bringing the long-running legal challenge over Mannat's expansion to a close.
