British televisions so often come up with gem documentaries. Life story of Princess Sophia Duleep Singh was no exception, aired in the week when Sikhs worldwide celebrated birth anniversary of the founder of Sikh faith, Guru Nana.
Sophia, granddaughter of Maharaja Ranjit Singh and Goddaughter of Queen Victoria, was leading campaigner for women’s suffragette movement that is part of British history, transforming political and ethical rights of British women, ultimately gaining right to vote in 1928 after three decade struggle.
Perhaps Sophia’s contribution was as important as that of Emmeline Pankhurst, who led the Suffragette movement but Sophia’s status, charm, elegance, pedigree and beauty with royal connection attracted prestige needed to draw attention of mostly hostile press. While Emmeline’s name is synonymous with women’s Suffragette victory that changed the political map of Britain, Sophia’s contribution was buried under the weight of Emmeline’s fame and fortune. Her white ethnicity getting exposure over Sophia’s Indian background.
When Ranjit Singh passed away, Prince Duleep was young boy, in no position to challenge might of British Raj who annexed his peaceful and prosperous kingdom in 1854, exiling the family to London. Ironically Punjab and India’s loss was Britain’s gain.
Sophia was so dedicated to her cause that she never married and passed away in 1948, her ashes scattered in Punjab, place associated with fond childhood memories. Perhaps British Indian community should erect her statue outside House of Parliament, fitting tribute to a daring princess!
Bhupendra M. Gandhi
Via Email
