Sarojini Naidu: The Nightingale of India
Sarojini Naidu was an early 20th century poet and prominent leader in India’s struggle for independence, as well as an advocate for social justice and women’s rights.
Their story is being brought to life through The Forgotten Army, a striking bronze sculpture currently touring the UK. Created by British artist and filmmaker Mahtab Hussain, the piece explores identity, culture and shared history.
The 120kg sculpture shows a group of soldiers standing together on a rocky cliff. At the forefront is a Hindu female soldier holding the Royal Governor’s flag, symbolizing leadership and hope. Around her are figures representing Muslim, Sikh, Bangladeshi and Gurkha soldiers, highlighting the unity and diversity of those who served side by side.
The sculpture is part of a touring exhibition created by The Royal British Legion and British Future which aims to raise awareness of the important role South Asian communities played in WWII.
Sunder Katwala, Director of British Future, said:
“We should never forget what we all owe to those who won the Second World War against fascism… Ensuring that the largest volunteer army in history is fully recognized in our national story remains important work in progress.”
The tour began in September 2025 at Liverpool’s John Moores University. Students worked with the RBL to create animations and augmented reality experiences to accompany the sculpture. The RBL has also delivered a range of engagement activities with schools and community groups local to the tour’s venues, helping build connections with British South Asian communities across the UK. During the sculpture’s exhibition at the National Memorial Arboretum, their Participation and Learning team worked with over 1,000 year 9 students to produce a creative response reflecting themes of identity, service and remembrance.
The sculpture is based on 3D scans of serving soldiers with family links to the Second World War. Mahtab Hussain also has a personal connection – his grandfather served in the conflict. He hopes the artwork will encourage people to explore their own family histories and reflect on belonging, shared heritage and the modern role of Remembrance. Personal stories can be contributed through the growing My Family Legacy archive.
Philippa Rawlinson, Director of Remembrance at the RBL, said:
““These stories are critical to the RBL’s Remembrance work, and they shape individual and collective identities. The very nature of Remembrance is about inclusivity and unity – all service should be recognized and remembered.”
Mahtab Hussain added:
“It’s important that all aspects of this story are told and everyone is included in Remembrance. The sculpture celebrates the contribution of the largest volunteer army in history and shows the impact of all faiths coming together and fighting for a bigger cause.”
In the late 1940s, there were plans to create a national memorial to honour the South Asian volunteer soldiers, but this never happened. Now, as the sculpture tours the UK, there are renewed hopes for a permanent memorial in London.
“To make a permanent piece in London would be a life changing moment” says Mahtab. “It will stand as a powerful symbol of unity and inclusivity, recognising the diversity of those who fought for freedom…there’s never a been a piece that brings all the faiths together.”
After a successful first year, the RBL is excited about taking The Forgotten Army to more locations, including Scotland, Huddersfield and Manchester, throughout 2026 and 2027. Visit the website for updates on future venues.
Photography: Mark Harrison
Sarojini Naidu was an early 20th century poet and prominent leader in India’s struggle for independence, as well as an advocate for social justice and women’s rights.
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