To commemorate the 124th anniversary of the renowned battle of Saragarhi, a momentous occasion unfolded at Guru Nanak Gurdwara in Wednesfield, a suburb situated in Wolverhampton, United Kingdom. On this significant day, a striking life-size bronze monument of Havildar Ishar Singh was revealed, standing as a tribute to his valour and bravery. Atop a six-feet plinth adorned with the engraved names of all the martyrs who valiantly fought in the historic Saragarhi battle,the magnificent statue stands tall, measuring an impressive height of ten feet.This momentous occasion marked the first of its kind in the United Kingdom, a heartfelt tribute dedicated to the indomitable courage and unwavering spirit of the Sikh troops from the 19th century.
About the battle of Saragarhi
On September 12, 1897, a group of 21 soldiers from the British Indian Army's 36th Sikh Regiment bravely faced off against a large number of Afghan tribesmen. Led by Havildar Ishar Singh, the 21 Sikh soldiers made a courageous choice to fight until their last breath instead of surrendering. The conflict revolved around the Saragarhi garrison, surrounded and attacked by the tribesmen.
Inside the garrison, the 21 men, under the leadership of Havildar Ishar Singh, decided to fight to the death rather than give up. Another individual, Khuda Dhad, a Muslim chef and handyman not registered as a soldier but working for the British Army, also chose to defend and sacrificed his life. Military historians regard this battle as one of the most remarkable last stands in history. Each year, on September 12, the Indian Army's 4th battalion of the Sikh regiment observes Saragarhi Day to honour this heroic event.
Commemorating the brave-hearted Sikh soldiers
The Guru Nanak Gurdwara Wednesfield commissioned a monument, and after the Wolverhampton Council agreed to transfer the land, it was officially unveiled by Giani Harpreet Singh, the Jathedar of the Akal Takht.
During the unveiling ceremony, Giani Harpreet Singh was accompanied by descendants of three soldiers, the President of the Saragarhi Foundation, Dr Gurunderpal Singh Josan, Major General Celia Harvey OBE from the British Army, and local dignitaries.
Councillor Bhupinder Gakhal, serving as the Cabinet Member responsible for City Assets and Housing at the City of Wolverhampton Council and representing the Wednesfield Southward, collaborated extensively with the Gurdwara to formulate the memorial's plans. Expressing his thoughts, he described it as a significant and momentous occasion.
The 21 Sikh soldiers, accompanied by a Muslim cook who bravely stood alongside them, exhibited extraordinary courage. He expressed hope that this remarkable memorial would inspire a greater number of individuals to discover the events that unfolded and learn about the strong bond of brotherhood and loyalty exhibited by those courageous men who fought until the very end.
He further added, "Our Saragarhi Memorial will be very important to a very large number of people-in Wednesfield, in Wolverhampton and across the world. This importance has been recognised by the wide variety of very important guests we have welcomed today."
In recent years, there has been a notable shift in the recognition and commemoration of Sikh history. The journey of Sikhism, once relatively overlooked, is now receiving the attention it rightfully deserves. This growing recognition is evident through various initiatives, including educational programs and public commemorations.
*Based on an article published in WION on 13th September 2021