Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Rajkumari Kaul: A Love Story That Couldn't End in Marriage

India’s former Prime Minister, Atal Bihari Vajpayee, is remembered not just for his eloquence and statesmanship but also for his poignant love story with Rajkumari Kaul—a tale as unique as the man himself.

How Their Love Began

Born on December 24, 1924, in Gwalior, Atal Bihari Vajpayee pursued his BA from Victoria College (now Maharani Laxmi Bai College). It was here that he met Rajkumari Haksar Kaul, and their love story began. Among many girls in the college, it was Rajkumari who caught Atal’s attention. Her striking beauty, especially her captivating eyes, left a lasting impression on him.

In a time when society frowned upon friendships between boys and girls, Atal hesitated to express his feelings. Similarly, Rajkumari, too, was unsure about revealing her emotions. Despite their mutual admiration, societal norms created barriers.

A Silent Romance

According to journalist and biographer Sagarika Ghose, both Atal and Rajkumari had commanding personalities. Atal eventually gathered the courage to confess his feelings in a letter, which he discreetly placed in a library book for Rajkumari to find. She responded to his note, but her reply never reached Atal, leaving their story incomplete.

Why They Couldn’t Marry

Their love story faced a decisive obstacle: Rajkumari’s family. While Atal shared a friendly bond with her brother, Chand Haksar, Rajkumari’s family disapproved of Atal as a prospective groom. His residence in Shinde Ki Chhawani and association with the RSS were seen as unsuitable. Eventually, Rajkumari married Braj Narayan Kaul, a philosophy professor at Delhi’s Ramjas College.

Rekindled Meetings in Delhi

After Rajkumari’s marriage, Atal turned his focus to his political career. When he was elected as a Member of Parliament from Balrampur, Uttar Pradesh, he moved to Delhi. Here, he reconnected with Rajkumari.

By the 1980s, their relationship was well-understood and respected by those around them. Rajkumari once remarked, “I never had to explain my bond with Atal to my husband. Our relationship was unshakeable.”

When Atal was allotted a large government bungalow in Delhi, Rajkumari, her husband, and their daughters moved in with him. Atal grew close to her family and even adopted her daughters.

An Unfinished Ending

Rajkumari Kaul passed away in 2014 at the age of 86 due to a heart attack. Her demise was deeply felt by those close to her, including Sonia Gandhi, who visited Atal’s residence to pay her respects.

Atal Bihari Vajpayee, who had been unwell since 2009, was unable to attend her funeral. Four years later, on August 16, 2018, Atal himself passed away at the age of 93.

A Legacy of Love and Respect

Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s life exemplified unshakable principles and enduring relationships. His connection with Rajkumari Kaul, though unconventional, was a testament to mutual respect and love—a story that continues to inspire those who know it.

This love story remains etched in the annals of history as a beautiful and poignant chapter in the life of one of India’s most beloved leaders.