Princess Indira Devi Kaur of Kapurthala- The Radio Princess

If you turn across the pages of history, you will find that there have been some badass women who are not only an inspiration for modern women but have led a courageous life. The sad thing about them is that their deeds have been forgotten and they have become unsung heroines from the past. One such lady is Princess Indira Devi Kaur of Kapurthala. She wasn’t an average delicate princess. She broke several barriers about what was considered ‘appropriate’ for women and hence, became a feminist icon.

Princess Indira Devi Kaur of Kapurthala- Professional Life

You might be interested to know that she was a south Asian woman who very well graced the BBC airlines during the Second World War. Born in 1912, Indira Devi was the daughter of Maharaja Paramjit Singh and Maha­rani Brinda of Kapurthala. Her parents got married in an arranged marriage set up and had an immensely unhappy married life. This made her leave the country for Britain without her parent’s consent in 1935. She wanted to be a part of Hollywood for which she joined the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA), which was considered the most prestigious drama school in the UK. She became associated with the British film producer Alexander Korda but her timings were not great. Little did she know that the world was to experience a war during this time.

Her Contribution During The War

During World War II, Princess Indira Devi Kaur of Kapurthala drove ambulances during air raids. She also worked as a postal censor. This was an incredibly important job because the government at that time was worried that the information in the letters might leak. Devi Kaur’s job was to ensure and make judgments on what was appropriate and what wasn’t.

Radio Career

She joined BBC in 1942 and her first role was to host a radio show that aimed at supporting the morale of Indian soldiers placed in the Middle East and the Mediterranean. She also broadcast a show named, The De­bate continues, which was mainly about the politics of the day. She had a flourishing career at BBC for more than three decades due to which she was known as the ‘Radio Princess’. You will also be amazed to know that she was the only woman present in the Press Gallery of the House of Commons.

Also Read: Women Achievers of Indian Origin

Overview

Her story is like the hidden treasures from the history books. The story is relatively unknown but is inspiring as well as bold. She wasn’t a normal princess who married a Prince and lead a lavish life. She wanted to do something great in her life and had high dreams and aspirations. She was one of the most glamourous women of her time who was also featured in the Vogue Magazine in the year 1930. Not much is known about the last phase of her life but she died in Ibiza, Spain in 1979. Princess Indira Devi Kaur of Kapurthala earned various labels during the span of life that includes being an actor, a princess, a fashion icon, a social worker, and not to forget a radio broadcaster.