Stella March, the mysterious queen of Kapurthala.
Stella March's journey began on the Paris stage where her captivating performances as a cabaret singer caught the attention of Prince Kapurthala Paramjit Singh.
A neglected grave in Delhi's Prithviraj Road Cemetery is the final resting place of the mysterious Queen of Kapurthala, Stella March. Stella was born in Kent, England, in 1904. Her life was filled with fame, love, and controversy, but she eventually faded into obscurity. Stella's journey began on the stage in Paris, where her captivating performances as a cabaret singer caught the attention of Prince Kapurthala Paramjit Singh. Despite being married to Princess Vrinda Devi, the prince was captivated by Stella's beauty and charm. Their secret romance sparked scandal within the royal family, and Stella was eventually crowned queen after a fierce battle with her family's opposition.
Paramjit's father, Maharaja Jagajit Singh, strongly opposed their union, even though he himself had been married to a foreign dancer. Stella was banned from entering the palace and lived in “Stella's Cottage” on the outskirts of Kapurthala. However, political pressure forced Paramjit to enter into a politically expedient marriage to a Rajput princess, although his heart remained with Stella.
Their love endured and Stella and Paramjit defied social norms and got married at a Gurudwara in England in 1937. Stella adopted Narinder Kaur ) name. However, their happiness was short-lived. After the death of King Paramjit in 1955, Stella was discredited by accusations of misappropriation of royal wealth, leading to her expulsion from the palace and subsequent exile in Shimla.
Stella's later years were marred by loneliness and financial intrigue, and rumors of hidden wealth in foreign banks added to her mystique. In 1984, Stella met a tragic end in Delhi when she fell and injured herself while drunk, bringing a tragic end to her turbulent life.
Today, Stella's grave lies in disrepair, a poignant symbol of a life that was once filled with glamor and scandal but is now forgotten by many. Although her moment of fame was fleeting, her legacy remains shrouded in mystery, leaving unanswered questions about her alleged wealth and the truth behind her turbulent life.
As time passes, Stella March's story continues to generate attention and speculation, ensuring that she will forever remain in the annals of Kapurthala's tumultuous history.
