Spy Princess: The Life Of Noor Inayat Khan

Shrabani Basu , Sharbani Basu

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On 13 September 1944, Noor Inayat Khan, the first female wireless operator to be flown into occupied France, was shot at Dachau. The descendant of Tipu Sultan, the Tiger of Mysore, Noor was born in Moscow and raised in the Sufi style of Islam. From this unlikely background, she became the only Asian secret agent in Europe in World War II, was one of three women in the SOE to be awarded the George Cross and the Croix de Guerre. Shrabani Basu's new book tells the full story of this extraordinarily heroic woman. Noor was brought up in France and Britain and joined the Red Cross when World War II broke out. In Britain, Noor trained as a wireless operator before being recruited by the SOE. Such was the urgent demand for radio operators that she was sent to France before her training was completed. Working under the code name of Madeleine, she joined a group that sabotaged communication lines. But disaster struck quickly and, within days, her circuit collapsed and her colleagues were arrested. Though instructed by her controller, the famous Maurice Buckmaster, to return home, she refused to abandon her post as she was the last radio operator left in Paris. For a time, she successfully dodged the Gestapo, but by late 1943 her luck had run out. She was betrayed, arrested and imprisoned at Avenue Foch. Undaunted, she made two dramatic escape attempts, but was recaptured and sent to Germany. Here she was interrogated and tortured and finally sent to Dachau, where she was shot. The Germans had learned nothing from her - not even her real name.

What will you learn from this book

  1. Bravery and Courage: Noor Inayat Khan's story epitomizes bravery and courage. Despite facing numerous challenges and dangers, she volunteered to serve as an undercover agent behind enemy lines in Nazi-occupied France during World War II.

  2. Unlikely Spy: Noor's background as a Sufi Muslim and a descendant of Indian royalty made her an unlikely candidate for espionage. However, she embraced the opportunity to serve her adopted country, Britain, and fight against tyranny.

  3. Wireless Operator: Noor's primary role in the SOE was as a wireless operator, responsible for sending and receiving secret messages between London and agents in France. Her fluency in French and proficiency in Morse code made her invaluable to the resistance.

  4. Betrayal and Capture: Despite her efforts to evade detection, Noor was eventually betrayed to the Gestapo and captured by the Nazis. She endured months of interrogation and torture but remained steadfast in her commitment to her mission and refused to reveal vital information.

  5. Sacrifice and Heroism: Noor's unwavering dedication to the Allied cause and her refusal to betray her comrades exemplify true heroism and sacrifice. Even in the face of imminent danger, she remained resolute and loyal to her principles.

  6. Escape Attempts: Noor made several daring escape attempts from captivity, displaying resourcefulness and resilience. Although her efforts were ultimately unsuccessful, they demonstrated her determination to defy her captors and regain her freedom.

  7. Final Stand: Noor's bravery extended to her final moments. Despite knowing the grave risks, she attempted to escape from Dachau concentration camp with other prisoners. Tragically, she was executed by the SS just days before the camp's liberation.

  8. Legacy and Recognition: Noor's remarkable story has left a lasting legacy. She posthumously received several honors for her bravery, including the George Cross, the Croix de Guerre, and the French Resistance Medal. She is remembered as a symbol of courage and resistance.

  9. Inspiration to Others: Noor's extraordinary courage continues to inspire people around the world. Her story serves as a reminder of the indomitable human spirit and the power of individuals to make a difference, even in the darkest of times.

  10. Historical Significance: Noor's contributions to the Allied war effort and her sacrifice have been recognized by historians and scholars. Her story sheds light on the vital role played by women and minority ethnic groups in intelligence operations during World War II

Language English
ISBN-10 8174366148
ISBN-13 9788174366146
No of pages 256
Font Size Medium
Book Publisher Lotus Collection
Published Date 01 Dec 2006

About Author

Author : Sharbani Basu

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