About this stamp
Meera Behn, originally named Madeleine Slade, was born in England in 1892 to Admiral Sir Edmond Slade, hailing from a traditional aristocratic family. Her life took a transformative turn when she read Romain Rolland’s book on Mahatma Gandhi, which left an indelible impact on her. Inspired by Gandhi’s principles, she dedicated herself to his service and to the cause of India’s freedom.
Upon her arrival in India, Gandhi bestowed upon her the name Meera, recognizing her devotion and commitment. She immersed herself in the Indian culture and language, teaching English, spinning, and carding at the Kanya Gurukul in Dehra Dun. Meera Behn’s association with Gandhi deepened as she accompanied him to the Second Round Table Conference in 1932, serving as his interpreter during his return journey.
Meera Behn considered India her home, feeling like a foreigner in England. She actively participated in the Satyagraha movement, experiencing imprisonment alongside Kasturba Gandhi and later on her own. Notably, she was arrested with Gandhi on the morning of August 9, 1942, and spent nearly two years in the Aga Khan Palace Detention Camp from August 1942 to May 1944.
In 1959, Meera Behn left India permanently and settled in a small village near Vienna. Her unwavering commitment to India’s freedom struggle earned her the Padma Vibhushan award in January 1982. She passed away on July 29, 1982, leaving behind a legacy of selfless service and dedication to the ideals of Mahatma Gandhi.
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