SMI 22: Sikh Troops War Memorial
Date: Created in 2022
Location: Victoria Park, Leicester
Bronze statue with marble plinth, images lasered into it.
History
The Sikh community migrated to Leicester predominantly from the Punjab, India during the 1950s and 1960s. They have been an important part of the fabric of Leicester since their arrival. During the mid-1800s, the Sikhs were recruited to become part of the Indian Army under the service of the British. They contributed to many campaigns across the world, culminating in their deployment in the First and Second World Wars. It is thought that the Sikhs made up more than 20% of the “British” Indian Army at the outbreak of the First World War.
The statue is based on a soldier who served with the 15th Ludhiana Sikhs Regiment. It was designed using 3D modelling as opposed to traditional sculpting. This was undertaken by the artist Taranjit Singh (Taran3D). The soldier is standing to attention, with his turban adorned with a “Chakkar” or quoit and a gun by his side. The plinth has images lasered into it depicting Sikh Military during both World Wars. The wording reflects the bravery and sacrifices of Sikhs in many campaigns as part of the “British” Indian Army.
The statue was unveiled on Sunday 30th October 2022. In attendance were Council officials, Members of Parliament and other dignitaries. A parade took place with the “Panj Pyare” (five beloved Sikhs hoisting traditional Sikh banners), members of the military, police, fire service, local school children and even a motor cycling club. The statue at Victoria Park, complements other memorials at the park including the Arch of Remembrance designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens, who also designed the India Gate memorial in New Delhi. The statue will serve as a beacon for greater interfaith dialogue and community cohesion.
Additional information
Project coordinated by Gurinder Singh Mann, 3D design by Taranjit Singh on behalf of the Sikh Troops War Memorial committee. The images on the plinth courtesy of the Imperial War Museum, London.