A remarkable World War II agent of Indian descent, Noor Inayat Khan, has been honored by France with a dedicated postage stamp. Khan, who was a descendant of the historical ruler Tipu Sultan, served as a British spy working with the French Resistance against the Nazi occupation. Her inclusion on this stamp is a landmark event, marking the first time a woman of Indian origin has been celebrated in this manner by France.
The ‘Figures of the Resistance’ series, released by the French postal service La Poste, features Khan as one of the brave individuals who stood against Nazi tyranny. This initiative holds particular weight as it falls on the 80th anniversary of the conclusion of World War II, a period that defined Khan’s ultimate sacrifice.
According to Shrabani Basu, author of ‘Spy Princess: The Life of Noor Inayat Khan,’ “I am thrilled that France has honoured Noor with a postage stamp, especially on this important 80th anniversary. She sacrificed her life in the fight against fascism. Seeing her face on a stamp, representing her bravery in Paris, is truly moving.” This acknowledgment highlights the global appreciation for her wartime efforts.
Born in Moscow in 1914, Noor’s background was unique, with an Indian Sufi father and an American mother. She lived in Paris before the war forced her family to seek refuge in England. There, she joined the WAAF and was subsequently enlisted by the SOE. In 1943, she undertook a perilous mission as a radio operator in occupied France, becoming the first woman to do so. Despite her bravery, she was captured by the enemy and met her tragic end in the Dachau concentration camp. Her posthumous commendations include the George Cross and the Croix de Guerre, testament to her immense courage.