"South Asian soldiers formed the largest volunteer army in history"
A special Remembrance event in Edinburgh honoured the wartime service of South Asian soldiers, highlighting their often-overlooked contribution to Britain’s military history.
Held at Lady Haig’s Poppy Factory on November 3, the event brought together members of Scotland’s South Asian community to commemorate those who served during the First and Second World Wars.
Organised by British Future, the Royal British Legion and Scottish heritage organisation Colourful Heritage, the gathering is part of the wider Forgotten Army exhibition programme, which is touring Scotland until 2027.
Attendees explored the Forgotten Army exhibition, took part in a guided tour of the Poppy Factory and heard presentations from British Future and Colourful Heritage about South Asian military heritage in Scotland.
Sunder Katwala, director of British Future, said:
“As we mark this Remembrance Sunday, we must never forget what we all owe to those who stood against fascism and won the Second World War.”
“South Asian soldiers formed the largest volunteer army in history, and ensuring their immense contribution is fully recognised in our national story remains vital work still in progress.
“Through My Family Legacy, we aim to help people discover, document, and share their family stories of courage, contribution, service, and sacrifice in the world wars.
“In doing so, we show how our traditions of Remembrance can unite today’s modern, diverse Britain – bringing us together ever more powerfully as we honour all who served to secure the freedoms we enjoy today.”
Families of those who served also shared personal stories, highlighting the legacy of South Asian military service and its place in Scotland’s shared history.
The event promoted the My Family Legacy campaign.
It encourages people to discover, document and share their family histories of service during the world wars.
Created by artist Mahtab Hussain, the Forgotten Army exhibition explores the experiences and contributions of South Asian soldiers from diverse faith backgrounds.
Dr Saqib Razzaq, head of research at Colourful Heritage, added:
“The Forgotten Army tour is an important opportunity to recognise the service and sacrifice of 4 million multi-faith Sikh, Muslim and Hindu South Asian soldiers who helped shape Britain’s history during both World Wars, but whose stories have too often been overlooked.
“Their story is not just a South Asian story or a military story; it is part of Scotland’s shared history.
“Bringing these histories to audiences across Scotland helps ensure that the contributions of these soldiers are remembered, recognised and passed on to future generations.”
