South Asian Heritage Month icon South Asian Heritage Month dates changed to "July" from 2026 — Learn more here → South Asian Heritage Month icon South Asian Heritage Month dates changed to "July" from 2026 — Learn more here → South Asian Heritage Month icon South Asian Heritage Month dates changed to "July" from 2026 — Learn more here →
Request a Service
Donate

The Hard-Fought Ground of Monte Cassino

In the brutal winter and into the spring of 1944, amongst the windswept peaks of central Italy, a battle unfolded that etched itself into the memory of the Second World War. The Battle of Monte Cassino, also known as the Battle for Rome, raged for four long months, becoming a crucible where the resolve of Allied forces was tested to its very limit. The Allied troops at Monte Cassino comprised soldiers from America, Britain, Canada, France, (pre-partition) India, New Zealand, Poland, Morocco, Algeria and South Africa.

This fight for a strategically vital mountain overlooking the path to Rome was not just a clash of armies; it was a testament to the courage and sacrifice of soldiers from across the globe, including a significant contingent from South Asia. Indian troops, as part of the 4th Indian Infantry Division, stood shoulder-to-shoulder with their Commonwealth comrades, the 8th Army.

The fight for Monte Cassino wasn’t just about territory; it was about shattering the German Gustav Line and opening the gateway to Rome. The 4th Indian Division, alongside other Allied forces, played a crucial role. Despite facing fierce resistance from entrenched Germans, particularly those well-defended within the grounds of the Monte Cassino monastery, Indian soldiers, along with New Zealand troops, launched a daring attack on the abbey. Though the objective wasn’t achieved, their bravery in the face of overwhelming odds remains a source of pride. Their tenacity and resilience, alongside that of other Allied forces, ultimately helped wear down the enemy’s defences, paving the way for the eventual breakthrough in May 1944 and the liberation of Rome.

The liberation was hard-won, for many brave soldiers of the 4th Indian Infantry Division paid the ultimate price or bore the scars of battle.

Muhammad Hussain was born in pre-partition India in a village in Rawalpindi and was only 16 years old when he ran away from home to enlist in the British Indian Army during the Second World War. He joined the Italian campaign in September 1943 under the 8th Indian Division commanded by Major General Dudley Russell and fought in the battle of Monte Cassino.  You can read Muhammad’s story here: https://www.britishlegion.org.uk/stories/coming-home-muhammad’s-story

The legacy of Monte Cassino for those of South Asian heritage is a complex one. It is a stark reminder of the horrors of war, but also a celebration of the unwavering courage displayed by Indian soldiers on foreign soil. Their contribution to the Allied victory stands as a testament to the vital role South Asia played in the fight against fascism.

To find out more about the Battle of Monte Cassino, please visit the Royal British Legion page here: https://www.britishlegion.org.uk/get-involved/remembrance/monte-cassino

Share the Post:

Related Posts

my mummy in her later teens possibily.

I Inherited her Light, A tribute to my mothers creative legacy.

As the saying goes, “Like mother, like daughter.” In the case of creative talents, this couldn’t be more true. The influence of a mother’s creativity can leave a lasting impact on her children, shaping their own artistic endeavours and passions. In this journal I explore the profound impact my mother’s creative legacy has influenced me and how Sohavi was truly born. Roots to routes explores my late mothers life journey from birth in Kenya to India as a teenager and eventually returning to Kenya in her 20’s , to marry my father Sardar Tirlochan Singh Dhamu, to emigrate to London from Nairobi in October 1973 and live out the rest of her life. Despite experiencing loss and trauma, she endured difficulties  n her younger years and made the best of her life in my fathers trusting hand, he led her to a new life in London. 

Read More
LEARN MORE

Close