This photo from Queen Elizabeth’s second visit to Independent India stands out, not because of the Queen herself, but because of then prime minister Indira Gandhi, whose subtle side-eye directed at the Queen adds dramatic flair to an otherwise basic photo op.
One can only wonder which of the numerous historic infractions of the British royal family was the cause of the side eye. It’s also entirely possible that this is not a side eye or intentional.
More about the Queen’s second visit to India:
Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip’s next royal visit took place nearly two decades later, upon the invitation of President Giani Zail Singh, and they stayed at the visitors’ suite of the Rashtrapati Bhavan. According to a newspaper cited by the BBC, the Indian furnishings were replaced with Viceregal decor for the visit, and old Western style dishes were prepared for her, since the Queen was said to like “simple meals”.
Her royal visit was at the same time as the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) hosted by Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. During her visit, the Queen famously presented Mother Teresa — now Saint Teresa of Calcutta — with the honorary Order of Merit, an extremely exclusive reward that is only limited to 42 living members at one time, for her service to humanity.
Explained Desk at indianexpress.com
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Mrs. Indira Gandhi, Prime Minister of India with Queen Elizabeth II during the Queen’s visit to India. New Delhi – 17th November 1983
