Victoria and Abdul

In 1887, Abdul Karim, a young prison clerk, receives an invitation to attend Queen Victoria’s Golden Jubilee in Britain. This event marks a significant honor, allowing him to carry a special gift, a Mohur, as a token of gratitude from India.

During the extravagant ceremony, Abdul and his companion Mohammad experience the awkwardness of waiting for the Queen to finish her meal before they can eat. The event takes an odd turn when the Queen unexpectedly dozes off while dining.

Amidst strict etiquette, Abdul inadvertently locks eyes with Queen Victoria as he retreats after presenting the Mohur. This brief moment sparks the Queen's curiosity about Abdul, setting the stage for their budding friendship.

Queen Victoria, intrigued by Abdul’s charm, invites him and Mohammad to prolong their stay in England. This leads to a significant event where Abdul serves jelly to the Queen and performs a gesture that astonishes onlookers.

Recognizing Abdul's unique talents, Queen Victoria appoints him as her personal butler, calling him her Munshi. Abdul shares stories of Indian culture, including his tales of the Taj Mahal and Indian cuisine, solidifying their bond.

As Abdul becomes a more integral part of her life, Queen Victoria’s connection with him creates tension, particularly with her private secretary, Henry Ponsonby. Complaints arise about Abdul’s growing influence, causing rifts in the palace.

In response to pressure from her son concerning her friendship with Abdul, Queen Victoria retreats to a smaller estate. Here, she shares her life more freely with Abdul, marking a deepening of their personal relationship.

Victoria’s growing admiration for Indian culture leads to the establishment of the Durbar Room at Osborne House. This room showcases intricate decorations, including Agra carpets, highlighting her affection for Abdul and his heritage.

As Queen Victoria recounts an embarrassing misrepresentation of the Indian Rebellion at court, tensions rise with Abdul. Following a brief moment of doubt, she decides to keep Abdul by her side, trusting him once more.

Investigations into Abdul's past reveal that he is merely a prison clerk rather than the noble figure he presented himself as. Despite these revelations, Queen Victoria remains steadfast in her defense of Abdul, demonstrating her loyalty.

With pressures mounting from her court, Victoria decides to honor Abdul with the title of Commander of the Royal Victorian Order instead of a knighthood. This recognition highlights her effort to validate his contributions amidst societal disapproval.

As Queen Victoria's health declines, she urges Abdul to return to India before her passing. She warns him of potential dangers that may follow, illustrating her care and concern for his safety above her own interests.

In 1901, Queen Victoria passes away, leading her son, King Edward VII, to sever ties with Abdul. He destroys all items connected to the Queen and sends Abdul and his family back to India, signaling a dramatic shift in Abdul’s fortunes.

Despite the King's actions, Abdul's wife cherishes the bejeweled locket given to him by Queen Victoria. This keepsake serves as a poignant reminder of their deep connection and the mutual respect that once flourished between them.

The film concludes with a reflective scene where Abdul kneels before a statue of Queen Victoria near the Taj Mahal. In this moment, he pays his respects and shares his heartfelt sentiments, encapsulating the complexity of their relationship.