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.
Begum Pasha Shah etched her name in history as the first Muslim woman to join the Women’s Auxiliary Corps (WAC) in India.
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.
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.
The George Cross (GC) is the highest civilian gallantry award given in the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth.
Mir Dast, a distinguished soldier from the Indian Army, was awarded the Victoria Cross for exceptional bravery in the First World War.
Born in Lahore, Iqra’s early years were steeped in a deep appreciation for her cultural heritage and the Urdu language.
Warrant Officer Class Two Khadak Bahadur Chhetri’s journey is marked by personal loss, unwavering determination, and a profound connection to his heritage.
Memorials around the UK honouring fallen South Asian Heroes.
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 First World War was a global conflict that involved millions of soldiers, sailors and aircrew from diverse backgrounds.
The first of the Trust’s projects is the South Asian Heritage Month (SAHM), which first took place in 2020 and runs from the 18th of July to the 17th of August each year.
SAHM seeks to commemorate, mark and celebrate South Asian cultures, histories, and communities.
It seeks to understand the diverse heritage and cultures that continue to link the UK with South Asia.
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