I am privileged to be part of the team behind the stunning new Sikh War Memorial in Leicestershire.
The statue has been created to honour the fallen soldiers of the Sikh faith who came forward to serve Britain during various Military campaigns. These started during the middle of the nineteenth century through to their involvement in World War 1 (1914-1918) and World War 2 (1939 to 1945).
At the beginning of World War 1, Sikh military personnel numbered around 35,000 men of the 161,000 troops of the Indian Army, around 22% of the armed forces, yet the Sikhs only made up less than 2% of the total Indian population. Sikhs have received the Indian Order of Merit (IOM) and the Victoria Cross (VC) for their sacrifices to the UK. To this day they form part of the British Army in various occupations.
This striking memorial will be located within the grounds of Victoria Park which resides next to the University of Leicester campus. It will form part of the Centenary Walk which leads to the Arch of Remembrance and many other Memorials already set within the grounds and will be clearly visible by visitors coming to the park.
This beautifully designed, striking statue has been created with the specific aim of:-
- Creating a lasting memory of Sikh soldiers who fought in the British Indian Army, and two World Wars.
- Ensuring the Sikh community feels a sense of representation in the UK.
- Reflect the existing design of the memorials at Victoria Park.
- Supplement existing Remembrance events in the City.
- Encourage tourism and events in the city.
- Foster strong, positive relations between Sikhs and non-Sikhs in the city.
I was tasked by the Sikh Troops Memorial Committee and Leicester City Council to oversee the design of the statue to completion. My work included commissioning an artist, working with the Council, working with fellow historians. Then liaising with the foundry and installation of the statue. As well as working on a booklet to be distributed on the day.
The statue will be proudly installed in Victoria Park on 30th October 2022.