Agatha Christie’s first novel has a Mussoorie connection – Agatha Christie’s first novel has a Mussoorie connection British historian explains how this happened in viral video

A real murder that took place in Mussoorie, India, inspired the first detective novel of the famous British author Agatha Christie. British historian Nick Booker revealed the story in a video that went viral on social media.

Booker shared the video explaining how a crime committed in one of Mussoorie’s most famous hotels laid the groundwork for Christie’s first novel, The Mysterious Affair at Styles, dated 1920, and introduced the world to the legendary detective Hercule Poirot.

For those who don’t know, Hercule Poirot is a fictional character created by Christie. He is one of the most iconic detectives in English literature.

Booke shot his now-viral video from the real site in Mussoorie and explains that the murder of a British woman in 1911 was the chilling inspiration behind this whodunit (mysterious) plot.

The video gave viewers a glimpse into the historic setting, showcasing the hostel’s old architecture with echoes of colonial times.

Brooke says in the video, “Did you know that the first Agatha Christie novel, which introduced Detective Hercule Poirot to the world, was inspired by a real murder that took place here (in Mussoorie) at the Savoy Hotel Mussoorie?” he said.

“It took place in September 1911. An English woman named Francess Garnett Orme was staying here (at the hotel) with her friend and another woman from Lucknow named Eva Mount Stephens.”

“Eva Stephens was an occultist (someone who studies and practices occultism). “He was interested in crystal gazing and other occult esoteric practices and was friends with Francess Garnett,” he said, adding: “When Francess’ body was found, the door had to be broken down because it was locked from the inside, and some form of cyanide poison was found next to her bed.”

He then said viewers should read Christie’s book themselves to find out more. “You know, I’m not going to tell you what happens next because the important thing is the turning point at the end of this wonderful book.”

“Hercule Poirot’s first case was inspired by India,” Booker said in the caption of his post, adding: “An incredible real-life murder in Massachusetts formed the basis of Agatha Christie’s first novel and introduced Detective Hercule Poirot to the world.” ”

Booker, who frequently explores lesser-known connections between India and the West, promised followers more information about why the hotel is called “The Savoy,” hinting at a backstory.

Watch the video here:

As the video went viral, Christie’s fans expressed their surprise in the comment section of the post.

“I’m so glad to learn this! “Poirot really is Christie’s detective extraordinaire, although I like Miss Marple better,” one user said.

Another user said: “Yes! Agatha Christie is my favorite novelist and I’m from India which makes it even more exciting for me.”

See the comments here:

Agatha Christie fans and history buffs continue to pour in comments, marveling at how an unsolved Indian mystery led to one of the world’s most beloved fictional detectives.