PA/61/10 13 October 2010
An Australian’s search for an Indian Princess
Can you solve the puzzle of the 200 year old slippers?
In a fascinating side story to the Delhi Commonwealth Games, one Australian visiting Delhi for the Games is also seeking to solve a two-century old family puzzle.
A pair of beautiful slippers have been passed through the family since the early 1800s. It is believed they belonged to an Indian woman, an early family ancestor who was, quite possibly, a Princess.
More details are in the attached document prepared by the Ronald family.
Eric Ronald is in Delhi working on the Commonwealth Games. He would be happy to speak to media about the search for the family’s Princess.
Australian High Commissioner Peter Varghese today said “this magical story has been cherished by an Australian family for generations. It is family history at its best. But it also shows the longstanding links that bind our two nations together. I hope the riddle of the slippers can be solved during Eric’s visit to India for the Commonwealth Games.”
Eric Ronald said today "I am extremely excited to return to India to be a part of the Commonwealth Games. I think the Indian people have done a brilliant job. Their friendliness and hospitality has made it a truly wonderful experience. The possibility of my family having Indian heritage adds to my excitement. It also explains my love of Dal Makhani and garlic naan! I hope we can uncover the mystery of the slippers while I am here."
Eric Ronald can be contacted on (In India) +61 433 218 325
Peter Ronald can be contacted on (in Australia) +61 427 614 454
The attached image can be used copyright free