France has issued a special postage stamp celebrating the life and bravery of Noor Inayat Khan, an Indian princess, descendant of Tipu Sultan, and a World War II spy. Khan served as a covert operative for the British, infiltrating occupied France to support the Resistance against Nazi Germany. This commemorative stamp is a historic first, recognizing her as the only woman of Indian origin to be featured on a French postal collectible.
This tribute comes from La Poste, the French postal service, as part of their ‘Figures of the Resistance’ series. This collection highlights the critical contributions of individuals who fought against the Nazi regime. The timing of the stamp’s release is particularly significant, coinciding with the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II.
Reflecting on the honor, author Shrabani Basu stated, “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.” Her words emphasize the deep emotional resonance of this recognition.
Born in Russia to an Indian father and American mother, Noor spent much of her youth in Paris before her family fled to England during the war. She joined the Women’s Auxiliary Air Force (WAAF) and was soon recruited into the Special Operations Executive (SOE). In 1943, she became a vital radio operator in Nazi-occupied France. Unfortunately, she was betrayed, captured, and ultimately executed at the Dachau concentration camp. Posthumously, she was awarded the George Cross by Britain and several high honors by France for her exceptional courage.