The Prince and Princess of Wales have been commended for setting what many call a “brave and selfless” example during their 2016 visit to India, where they quietly carried out charitable work—without the heavy security presence typically expected for high-profile royals.
During their trip, William and Catherine requested a low-profile visit to the Salaam Baalak Trust Centre in New Delhi, a nonprofit organisation dedicated to helping underprivileged children.
The royal couple specifically asked to avoid media attention to ensure the focus remained on the children and their work, not on royal fanfare. Sanjoy Roy, co-founder of the Salaam Baalak Trust, shared insights into the visit during a recent interview.
According to GB News, Roy recalled that the royal couple’s team contacted him with an unexpected request: “They’re happy to come without security,” in an effort to keep the visit under the radar.
Initially hesitant, Roy tried to advise against the idea, citing safety concerns. “I tried to dissuade them, saying, ‘No can do – it’s too dangerous. Just don’t come,’” he said. But William and Kate were insistent: “No, we really want to.”
Roy also contrasted their visit with a previous high-profile appearance by former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair and his wife Cherie, which he described as a “circus” due to the intense security and media attention.
By comparison, he praised the royal couple for being “so wonderfully respectful” during their time with the children. The recollection of William and Kate’s approach comes amid Prince Harry’s highly publicized legal battle over the loss of his UK police protection after stepping down as a working royal.
In a recent statement, the Duke of Sussex said, “I can’t see a world in which I would bring my wife and children back to the UK,” citing security concerns. The contrast between Harry’s comments and the Waleses’ past actions has reignited public debate over royal responsibilities, risk, and privilege.
Many have lauded William and Kate for their willingness to carry out duties in potentially “dangerous” situations without demanding exceptional measures or media control.
As the future King and Queen, William and Catherine continue to be recognized not only for their leadership but also for their willingness to lead by example—even when it means stepping out of their comfort zone for the sake of service.