The Empress & The Rebel – talk by author Christy Campbell at Osborne House

Saturday 22 September – 2pm

 Maharajah Duleep Singh, who gave the fabulous Koh-i nur diamond to Queen Victoria and was a regular visitor at her island home, is the subject of a talk being held at Osborne House on Saturday 22 September, as part of Anglo Sikh Heritage Week.

It presents a rare opportunity to hear Christy Campbell, journalist and author of the ground-breaking book The Maharajah’s Box, talk about its fascinating central character, his extraordinary life and his relationship with Queen Victoria.

Duleep Singh, the last emperor of the Sikhs, came to England in 1854 and stayed at Osborne where he was sketched by Queen Victoria, photographed by Prince Albert and painted by court artist Winterhalter – the famous portrait still hangs in the Indian-inspired Durbar Wing at Osborne House, where the talk will take place.    

Christy Campbell was initially drawn to the Maharajah, when he unearthed links to his life while researching a story for the Daily Telegraph on unclaimed World War II Swiss Bank deposit boxes.  He will relate the dynamics of the interaction between Queen Victoria, then Empress of India and the deposed rebel Prince, who dared to challenge her Government’s treatment of him.

The talk starts at 2pm - normal admission prices apply of £9.80 for adults, £7.40 for concessions, £4.80 for children and £24.50 for a family tickets.  Combine the talk with a visit to the magnificent house and gardens – which is open all day from 10am to 6pm. 

Anglo Sikh Heritage Week, which is supported by the Heritage Lottery Fund, takes place from 15 – 23 September and features a variety of events - from talks and family workshops, to performances of music and dance - at museums, galleries and historic attractions with Sikh connections countrywide.  For more information, download the PDF from our Anglo Sikh Heritage Week page, visit www.asht.info or call 01922 721504.  For more information about Osborne House, visit www.english-heritage.org.uk/osborne or call 01983 200022.