Royal British Legion - South Asian Heritage Trust

Honorary Captain Gian Singh VC: A Legacy of Courage from Punjab to Buckingham Palace

His story, rooted in the earth of Punjab and culminating in the highest recognition for valour, is a testament to courage and devotion to service.

The Lascars: Seafaring Roots of Modern Britain

The Lascars – thousands of seafarers from the Indian subcontinent, Southeast Asia, the Arab world and Africa.

Pardeep Kaur MBE: From Indian Roots to a Celebrated Route in the British Army

For South Asian Heritage Month, the Royal British Legion celebrates the remarkable journeys of individuals who have woven their rich heritage into the fabric of British society.

Sylvia Manasseh – from the Women’s Auxiliary Corps in India to teacher and sculptor

Sylvia Manasseh today lives in South London and reflects on her long life, and her years serving in India during the war.

South Asia’s War and 1945

This year has seen commemorations of the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War. The most destructive and lethal conflict in history lasted six years, and drew in almost every nation of the world.

Captain Yavar Abbas: A Filmmaker’s Route Through War and Empire

Yavar Abbas’s remarkable journey began in a princely state in India, and navigated through the fierce currents of the Second World War, partition and a distinguished career as a writer and filmmaker. It offers a unique perspective on service, identity and world-changing events.

Begum Pasha Shah: A Trailblazer in Indian Military History

Begum Pasha Shah etched her name in history as the first Muslim woman to join the Women’s Auxiliary Corps (WAC) in India.

The wounded Havildar who defied death- Gaje Ghale VC

Gaje Ghale was born on 1 August 1918 in Barpak, Gorkha District, Nepal. Barpak, a small village nestled in the rugged terrains of the Himalayas, is in a region that has produced some of the most esteemed soldiers to have served in the armed forces.

The second-youngest Indian recipient of the VC- Sepoy Kamal Ram

Records indicate that no Victoria Crosses were awarded to Indian soldiers specifically for their actions at Monte Cassino during The Second World War. However, Indian soldiers played a significant role in the gruelling battles for Monte Cassino, with many displaying exceptional bravery. One soldier, Sepoy Kamal Ram of the 8th Punjab Regiment, did receive the Victoria Cross for his actions at the Garigliano River in Italy in May 1944.