When Princess Diana met Dr. Hasnat Khan in 1995, it marked the start of one of the most secretive and heartfelt romances of her life. Khan, a skilled cardiac surgeon at London’s Royal Brompton Hospital, was far removed from the royal circles, yet he became someone Diana cherished deeply.
She first encountered him during a visit to see her friend Oonagh Shanley-Toffolo’s husband, who was under Khan’s care. From that moment, Diana was smitten. Not because of his status or wealth, but because of his kindness, humility, and genuine spirit — traits she often missed in her own world.
To keep their growing relationship under wraps, they used clever tactics. They passed notes instead of calling each other, met in quiet corners of London’s jazz bars, and even resorted to disguises. Diana would sometimes wear a mask, and Khan would sneak into Kensington Palace using the help of her loyal butler, Paul Burrell, by hiding in the trunk of a car.
As their bond strengthened, so did their commitment to each other. Diana introduced him to her two sons, William and Harry, and even traveled to Lahore, Pakistan, to meet his family. There, she felt truly accepted and appreciated the warmth she received.
Those closest to her say she referred to him lovingly as “Mr. Wonderful” and considered him her true soulmate. But despite their deep feelings, the pressures of fame and identity created a rift. While Diana wanted to bring their love into the light, Khan feared it could damage his career.
They separated in July 1997, only weeks before Diana’s untimely death in Paris. Khan was devastated and attended her funeral at Westminster Abbey, standing among those who loved her most.
Since then, he has honored her memory, calling her “a very normal person with great qualities and some personal flaws.” He remains a dedicated heart surgeon and humanitarian, working in Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, forever touched by the love he shared with a global icon.
