Meet Begum Samru: India's only catholic queen who rescued Shah Alam II
The article profiles Begum Samru, an 18th-century figure who rose from a courtesan to become a powerful queen and the founder of the Basilica of Our Lady of Graces in Sardhana. Her life story reflects the complex geopolitical landscape of colonial-era India.
Why it matters
It provides historical context on the diverse cultural and religious influences that shaped pre-colonial and colonial India.
In Uttar Pradesh's Sardhana lies the Basilica of Our Lady of Graces. A basilica is a title of privilege conferred by the Pope on churches of historical or artistic significance. There are more than 70 basilicas in Asia and India with 28 basilicas having the most. But how did a church in a small town become a basilica? Because of its founder, Joanna Nobilis Sombre, nee Farzana Zebunissa, also known as Begum Samru.The late queen's tomb lies inside the church, topped by an imposing 18-foot marble statue of her seated on a throne, surrounded by her Indian and European associates. The intricate bas-reliefs on the tomb provide glimpses into her life story, which was as regal as dramatic.A begum in the makingNot much is known about Begum Samru's childhood.
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