Princess Diana: What Nelson Mandela, Mother Teresa And Other Personalities Thought About Her

Princess Diana — dubbed as the “People’s Princess” because of her wide appeal and strong connection to the public — is still lovingly remembered and missed today. Her tragic death 22 years ago didn’t stop her from being an inspiration to everyone with her vision of a better and kinder world.

The Princess of Wales touched the lives of many people, even celebrities and other famous ones. Here are some of the tributes and memories that the people who met her shared over the years.

Nelson Mandela

Nobel Peace Prize winner Nelson Mandela spoke to the princess shortly before her passing. And he recalled how her kindness and effort could have changed the world today.

“When she stroked the limbs of someone with leprosy or sat on the bed of a man with HIV/Aids and held his hand, she transformed public attitudes and improved the life chances of such people,” Mandela said.

Gianni Versace

Italian fashion designer Gianni Versace was close to Diana and Elton John. “There is a kind of serenity,” he said on Vanity Fair.

“I had a fitting with her last week for new suits and clothing for spring, and she is so serene. It is a moment in her life, I think, when she’s found herself — the way she wants to live,” he added.

The fashion icon died a few days later. Sadly, Princess Diana followed six weeks after his death.

Mother Teresa

Mother Teresa and Princess Diana shared the same vision of helping the less fortunate. Reports claimed that Diana was a changed woman after meeting the saint in Calcutta.

“Diana was extremely sympathetic to poor people — and very lively, and homely, too,” said Mother Teresa. “All the sisters and I are praying for her and for all members of her family.”

Elton John

Famed musician Elton John shared a special bond with Diana. And he will always remember the love and support she gave when their friend Gianni Versace passed away.

“She was very much loved,” he said. “She was a controversial figure in some respects, but not to me. I loved her because she did so much for AIDS and she was a great friend to me. We had our fallings out, but we reconciled in the end.”