The Unlikely Heroine: How an Indian Princess Defied the Nazis

Princess Catherine Duleep Singh, daughter of the last Maharaja of the Sikh Empire, lived a life of privilege in England, but her story took an unexpected turn when she risked everything to help Jewish families escape Nazi Germany. Often called the "Indian Schindler," Catherine's bravery and compassion during a dark period in history have only recently begun to receive the recognition they deserve.

A Royal Upbringing

Born in London on October 27, 1871, Catherine was the daughter of Maharaja Duleep Singh, the last Maharaja of the Sikh Empire, and his wife Bamba Müller. Her father had been deposed by the British Crown following the Anglo-Sikh War in 1849, and he was later exiled to England. Despite growing up far from her ancestral homeland, Catherine remained aware of her Indian heritage. She and her sisters were raised in high society, enjoying the benefits of their family's wealth and status. However, Catherine chose a path of service and activism, becoming involved in the women's suffrage movement.

Life in Germany and a Defining Relationship

Catherine's life took a significant turn when she moved to Germany with her companion, Lina Schäfer. The two women established a home and lived together for many years. Their relationship, though private, was a defining aspect of Catherine's life. As the Nazi party rose to power in the 1930s, Catherine and Lina found themselves in an increasingly dangerous environment. The Nazi regime condemned homosexuality and targeted Jewish people, creating a climate of fear and persecution.

Defying the Nazis: A Secret Crusade

Despite the risks, Catherine and Lina chose to stay in Germany and secretly help Jewish families escape the Holocaust. Catherine used her wealth and influence to provide safe passage to England for those fleeing Nazi persecution. She provided funds, secured accommodations, and acted as a guarantor for families seeking refuge.

Details of Catherine's efforts are still emerging, but accounts suggest she helped several families escape the clutches of the Gestapo. One notable case involved the Hornstein family. Wilhelm Hornstein, a government lawyer, was arrested and sent to Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp. Catherine intervened, acting as the family's guarantor to secure his release and bring them to England in 1939. She also assisted the Meyerstein family and violinist Alexander Polnarioff.

Catherine's home in Buckinghamshire became a haven for refugees. So many German-Jewish refugees stayed at her house that locals grew concerned and questioned where they were all coming from.

Forced to Flee

As the Nazi regime tightened its grip on Germany, Catherine's neighbor and accountant, Dr. Fritiz Ratig, warned her that her safety was at risk. The Nazis disapproved of her and Lina. Following Lina's death in August 1938, Catherine made the difficult decision to leave Germany.

In November 1938, she sold her belongings and fled to England via Switzerland. Before leaving, she ensured that several Jewish families had the means to escape to safety.

Legacy and Remembrance

Catherine Duleep Singh passed away on November 8, 1942, in Buckinghamshire. She had no children, and her legacy remained largely unknown for many years. In 1997, a Swiss bank account belonging to Catherine was discovered, sparking speculation that it might contain information about the Koh-i-Noor diamond. However, the account primarily held funds that were eventually bequeathed to the family of Karim Baksh Supra, who had worked for Catherine's sister.

Today, Catherine is remembered as a courageous woman who defied the Nazis and risked her life to save others. Her story highlights the importance of standing up against injustice and the impact that one person can have on the lives of many. She is often referred to as the "Indian Schindler," a testament to her extraordinary efforts to rescue Jewish families from the Holocaust.

A Life of Quiet Courage

Princess Catherine Duleep Singh's life was one of contrasts. Born into royalty and privilege, she chose a path of quiet courage, using her resources to help those in desperate need. Her actions during the rise of Nazism demonstrate the power of compassion and the importance of fighting for what is right, even in the face of overwhelming adversity. While her story remained largely untold for many years, Catherine's legacy as an "Indian Schindler" is now being recognized, ensuring that her bravery and selflessness will not be forgotten.