A RADA-trained actor claims he is now 'homeless' and embroiled in a £1.2 million inheritance dispute with his sister, alleging she unduly influenced their late mother to disinherit him.
Milda Rajhpaul died in 2024 at the age of 88, leaving an estate that her son, Robert Rajhpaul, estimates could be worth up to £1.2 million. This includes their family home in Hammersmith, west London, valued at £900,000. Robert Rajhpaul contends that his sister, Precious Rajhpaul, pressured their mother into changing her will the year before she died, effectively cutting him out.
The dispute centers on Milda's August 2023 will, which names Precious Rajhpaul as the sole beneficiary and executor, disinheriting her son. Robert Rajhpaul has taken legal action, asserting that his mother lacked the capacity to make this new will and that it was procured through undue influence. He also claims his mother expressed a desire for a Christian burial, which his sister allegedly disregarded by arranging a cremation.
Robert Rajhpaul, representing himself in court, told Judge Nigel Gerald at Central London County Court that he and his dog are currently staying in temporary homeless accommodation. He alleges that his sister changed the locks on their mother's home, isolated her from other family members, and even disconnected the phone line, preventing his mother from transferring property to him.
Conversely, Precious Rajhpaul denies these allegations. Her barrister, Nicola Phillipson, argued in court documents that Robert's case has 'no prospect of success' and lacks supporting evidence. Ms. Phillipson stated that Robert has not provided medical evidence or detailed particulars to substantiate his claims regarding his mother's capacity or the alleged undue influence.
The siblings also differ on the amount of cash left in the estate. Precious Rajhpaul states there was £16,530, while Robert Rajhpaul claims it was closer to £315,000.
In addition to challenging the will, Robert Rajhpaul is also pursuing a claim for 'reasonable provision' from the estate under the 1975 Inheritance Act, arguing he was financially dependent on his mother. His sister's barrister maintains that his case lacks merit and evidence.
Judge Gerald adjourned the case, advising Robert Rajhpaul to secure legal representation to properly present his arguments concerning the will's validity, capacity, and undue influence. The court will later decide if the will challenge can proceed to a full trial, with the judge noting the seriousness and expense of such allegations.
