The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have never been strangers to the spotlight, but a surprising detail from the early days of their relationship has come to light, showcasing Prince Harry’s protective nature and Meghan Markle’s unexpected reaction.
In his memoir Spare, Prince Harry recounts a moment in 2017 when he made an unusual request of Meghan, leaving her puzzled. At the time, Meghan was actively pursuing her acting career while championing causes close to her heart, including gender equality. During a humanitarian trip to India with World Vision, a children’s poverty charity, Meghan planned to highlight her advocacy work.
However, Harry issued a heartfelt warning that caught her off guard: under no circumstances should she take a photo in front of the Taj Mahal, India’s most famous landmark.
A Request Rooted in Royal History
When Meghan inquired about the reasoning behind his plea, Harry revealed it stemmed from his late mother, Princess Diana. In 1992, during a memorable royal tour, Diana was famously photographed sitting alone in front of the Taj Mahal—a poignant moment that became one of the most iconic images of her life.
Harry explained that he didn’t want Meghan’s photo to draw comparisons or fuel media narratives suggesting she was imitating Diana. His concern wasn’t about controlling Meghan’s actions but about shielding her from unnecessary scrutiny.
Harry wrote, “Do not take a photo in front of the Taj Mahal. She’d asked why, and I’d said: My mum. I’d explained that my mother had posed for a photo there, and it had become iconic, and I didn’t want anyone thinking Meg was trying to mimic my mother.”
Meghan’s Unexpected Reaction
The revelation left Meghan “baffled.” Unaware of the historical significance of Diana’s photo, Meghan found Harry’s reasoning both surprising and endearing. According to Harry, her genuine confusion over the matter made him love her even more.
Protecting the Duchess
This anecdote not only highlights Harry’s deep respect for his mother’s legacy but also his determination to protect Meghan from the pressures of royal comparisons. It paints a picture of a couple navigating the unique challenges of their roles while striving to maintain authenticity.
As the Sussexes continue to carve their own path, moments like this underscore the balance they sought between honoring royal traditions and asserting their individuality. Meghan’s reaction to Harry’s request and his willingness to share this intimate moment reflect the depth of their bond amidst a world of scrutiny.
