Maharani Indira Devi: A Fashion Icon and Rebel Queen Ahead of Her Time

NEWS CHARIOT : In a world where women were often relegated to secondary roles regardless of their status or wealth, Maharani Indira Devi of Cooch Behar defied expectations and emerged as a pioneering figure. Widely regarded as a fashion icon, she was a trendsetter who could rival the best-dressed women of today. Known as the ‘Goddess of Fashion,’ Indira Devi popularized the chiffon saree and wore diamond-studded sandals worth crores of rupees, often imported from Europe. She once placed an extravagant order for 100 pairs of sandals from the famous Italian shoemaker Salvatore Ferragamo, some of which were adorned with diamonds and pearls.

Indira’s beauty and style were legendary. Biographers describe her as the most beautiful woman of her time, a true fashionista with an eye for the latest European and American trends. She was constantly seen in the most fashionable designer dresses and was well-connected with top Hollywood celebrities, hosting lavish parties in Europe that included A-list stars.

The Queen Who Defied Tradition

Born on February 19, 1892, Indira Devi, originally named Indira Raje, was the daughter of Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III of Baroda. She became the Maharani of Cooch Behar after her marriage to Jitendra Narayan, against the expectations of her royal family. Indira’s love story has become the stuff of legend. She famously broke off her engagement to Madho Rao Scindia, the crown prince of Gwalior, and chose to marry Jitendra Narayan, the younger brother of the Maharaja of Cooch Behar.

Her decision to defy her parents’ wishes by writing a courageous letter to her fiancé, explaining her love for Jitendra, shocked both families. Though initially opposed, her parents eventually allowed her to marry Jitendra, and they wed in London, with no family members present.

A Life of Influence and Glamour

Following her husband’s untimely death, Maharani Indira Devi became the Queen Regent of Cooch Behar, acting on behalf of her minor son, Jagaddipendra Narayan. Her lifestyle remained lavish, and she continued to live most of her life in Europe, enjoying the company of high society, gambling, and throwing glamorous parties. Her daughter, Princess Gayatri Devi, would later go on to become the Maharani of Jaipur.

Maharani Indira Devi passed away in 1968 at the age of 76, leaving behind a legacy as a modern woman, a fashion icon, and a bold rebel who lived life on her own terms.