Who is Princess Sarvath El Hassan? The Indian-born woman who nearly became the Queen of Jordan

As India’s Prime Minister wrapped up a two-day visit to Jordan during a broader three-nation tour, the focus remained on diplomacy, cooperation, and strengthening ties between the two countries.

Such visits usually centre on official meetings and shared goals. However, beyond the formal discussions, there is a personal story that connects India and Jordan in a quieter, more human way.This is not a story about agreements or politics. It is about a woman whose life has crossed borders shaped by history and public life. Born in India, raised in different countries, and married into Jordan’s royal family, Princess Sarvath El Hassan once came close to becoming the Queen of Jordan.

Her journey links India, Pakistan, and Jordan, adding a unique personal dimension to relations between the regions.

Born in India just before Partition

Princess Sarvath El Hassan was born as Sarvath Ikramullah in Calcutta, now Kolkata, in 1947. Her birth came just weeks before the Partition of India, a moment that changed the lives of millions across the subcontinent. She was born into the influential Suhrawardy family, a Bengali Muslim family known for its role in public life, according to a report by DNA.

After Partition, her family moved to the Pakistani side of the border. This shift marked the beginning of a life shaped by changing nations and historic events.

A childhood shaped by public service

Sarvath Ikramullah grew up in a family deeply connected to Pakistan’s early political and diplomatic journey. As per the DNA report, her father, Mohammed Ikramullah, later became Pakistan’s first Foreign Secretary. Her mother, Begum Shaista Suhrawardy Ikramullah, was one of Pakistan’s first female parliamentarians and later served as the country’s ambassador to Morocco.Because of her parents’ official responsibilities, Sarvath spent her growing years in different countries. This exposure gave her an early understanding of public life and international affairs.

Education in the United Kingdom

As part of her academic journey, Sarvath completed her higher studies in the United Kingdom. She studied at the University of Cambridge. By this stage, her life had already been influenced by global travel and diplomatic surroundings.Her education and upbringing prepared her for a public role that would later place her far from South Asia.

A marriage that changed her life

In 1968, Sarvath Ikramullah married Prince Hassan bin Talal of Jordan. The wedding took place in Karachi. At the time, Prince Hassan was the Crown Prince of Jordan, making Sarvath the Crown Princess.With this marriage, she became one of the highest-ranking women in Jordan’s royal family. Her position placed her close to the throne and gave her an important public role in the kingdom.

Her role as Crown Princess of Jordan

As Crown Princess, Princess Sarvath worked in areas linked to education, women’s issues, social welfare, and health. Her focus remained on social development and public service rather than ceremonial presence alone.Her work reflected the values of service and responsibility that had been part of her upbringing.

Why she did not become Queen

According to a report by NDTV, in 1999, shortly before his death, King Hussein of Jordan named his son Abdullah II ibn Al Hussein as the next King.

This decision changed the line of succession. Prince Hassan, the king’s brother, was no longer the heir to the throne.As a result, Princess Sarvath did not become Queen of Jordan. Despite this change, both she and Prince Hassan continued to serve important roles in the kingdom. They have remained active in public and royal engagements and have also taken part in European royal events.Thumb image: Reddit