Indian Sahib: Queen Victoria's Dear Abdul

The arrival of 24-year-old Abdul Karim in 1887 to be one of the elderly Queen Victoria's domestic servants, was to change both their lives. This book unfolds the story of their friendship. Quickly separating him from other servants, the Queen was soon meeting Abdul for daily Hindustani lessons, allowing him to cook curry for her, and discussing with him the contents of confidential letters from the Viceroy of India. To the indignation of her family and household, the Queen advanced Abdul with gifts of land, houses and honours, making him her Indian Private Secretary and refusing to hear a word said against him. Many arguments occurred as the Queen's entourage tried in vain to halt the progress of her favourite's career. The Queen continued to defend and confide in Abdul, and his influence upon her was said to be enormous, especially when he told her "what Indians really feel". This book contains a collection of letters and diaries from a range of contributors.