Chai ki charcha with British royalty

Her piercing gaze might make you squirm in your seat, but as soon as she starts to speak, you’ll feel right at home. Sarah, Duchess of York, the ex-wife of Prince Andrew and former daughter-in-law of Queen Elizabeth II, is no stranger to India. And of all things Indian, she says she loves Indian chai the most. “I love the fact that people here love tea and most of your tea is drunk all over the world. My dream is to set up tea rooms all over the country. I love Indian food too, but not too spicy please!” sayss Fergie, as she’s fondly called.

The British royalty is very fond of India. “I love being here and I am very grateful to the people of India who are extremely kind and hospitable. Sometimes, when you arrive in a country, it can be very in-your-face. When I am here, I love the pace and attune myself to it,” says the author and philanthropist, who was in the country to spread awareness about her various charitable ventures, including those involved with upliftment of women and to attend the HVR Baroda Cup 2015.

However, the 56-year-old likes to call herself a ‘philathropreneur’. “It’s not about the ego. When you feel bad about yourself, you go out and help others, that is what my grandmother taught me. I don’t believe that you should give people a fish, you should give them a rod, and teach them how to fish,” she says.

I am very grateful to the people of India who are extremely kind and hospitable Sarah, Duchess of York

PHOTO: WASEEM GASHROO/ HT