Sikh soldiers in the British Army commemorated one of the most courageous final stands in military history last month.
A civic event, featuring a significant military aspect, took place in Wednesfield, Wolverhampton on Sunday, 8 September to commemorate the 127th anniversary of the Battle of Saragarhi.
On 12 September 1897, 21 Sikh soldiers from the British Indian Army valiantly defended a signal station located on the Northwest Frontier of present-day Pakistan against overwhelming odds. This strategic outpost, known as Saragarhi, was situated on the border between modern Pakistan and Afghanistan, positioned between two British forts that served to protect British India from incursions by Afghan tribesmen.
On that fateful morning, Saragarhi found itself encircled by approximately 10,000 Afghans, commonly referred to as Pathans. The station attempted to signal one of the forts for assistance, only to discover that both forts were under siege and unable to provide support to the besieged Sikh soldiers. Resolute in their duty, the defenders of Saragarhi chose to fight to the death in order to safeguard their comrades stationed in the forts.
After repelling multiple assaults, the Sikh soldiers were gradually overrun. Ultimately, none of the defenders survived, yet they managed to inflict significant casualties, accounting for around 1,400 Afghan fighters. The final Sikh soldier reportedly killed over 40 tribesmen before succumbing, his last words echoing the Sikh war cry. Their courageous stand not only helped protect the two forts but also contributed to the eventual retreat of the Afghan forces through the Khyber Pass.
In recognition of their bravery, the defenders of Saragarhi were posthumously awarded the Indian Order of Merit, the highest military honour available to soldiers of the British Indian Empire.
This annual Saragarhi Day event, organized by the local Sikh community at Guru Nanak Gurdwara, is observed by Sikhs throughout the UK and globally.
Staff Sergeant Ranjit Singh, Royal Signals, Defence Sikh Network Army lead said: “Sikhs have a rich and longstanding tradition of service in the British Army. The bravery and professionalism of the Sikhs at Saraghari, continue to inspire many Sikhs who serve today.
“This epic last stand exemplifies the Sikh concept of a Saint-Soldier. By remembering their story, we are ensuring their heroism is not forgotten and hoping that it inspires more Sikhs to connect with their martial history and the British Army.”
