South Asian Heritage Month
1 to 31 July 2026

A Crown Prince Takes Flight: The Story of Pilot Officer Paljor Namgyal

Buddhist Tribute

Born in 1921 amidst the vibrant culture of Sikkim, a small Himalayan state nestled in India’s northeast, where Buddhism is deeply woven into the fabric of life, Kunzang Choley Namgyal, better known as Paljor Namgyal, was the Crown Prince, the eldest son of Maharaja Sir Tashi Namgyal. Paljor nevertheless harboured a passion for aviation.

The National Memorial Arboretum

Armed Forces Memorial

The National Memorial Arboretum, a site for remembrance and learning, honours those who served, including those with South Asian heritage.

The Khanda Poppy Tribute

Khanda Poppy Tribute (Kalwinder Singh Dhindsa)

The Poppy Shop is the official online charity shop of the Royal British Legion. It offers a wide range of items, the sale of which goes towards its work supporting the Armed Forces community. Many items are related to Remembrance, including faith-based poppy tributes. One example is the Khanda Poppy Tribute, and it’s origin is a fascinating story.

Chattri Memorial

The Chattri Memorial 1 (Phil Duffy)

Standing tall in the South Downs National Park, the Chattri Memorial commemorates 53 Indian soldiers (37 Hindu and 16 Sikh) of the First World War.