MISSION MARIGOLD
Honouring THE CONTRIBUTIONS OF IndiaN SOLDIERS' Sacrifice on Armistice Day, 11th November
Wear the Marigold. Honour Their Sacrifice.
शौर्यं तेजो धृतिर्दाक्ष्यं युद्धे चाप्यपलायनम् |
दानमीश्वरभावश्च क्षात्रं कर्म स्वभावजम् ||
Valour, strength, determination, skill, steadfast in battle, generosity, and leadership, these are the natural qualities of the Kshatriya
Bhagavad Gita 18.43
On 11 November, Remembrance Day, the world marks the end of the First World War in 1918. Silence is observed for the dead of two global wars. For Hindus, this connects to the dharma of the Kshatriya, embodied by Indian soldiers who fought and died across continents.
First World War, 1.3 million Indians served, with 70,000 killed in action.
Second World War, 2.5 million Indians served, with 87,000 killed in action.
Indian war memorials
Victories that Shaped History
Ypres 1914: Indian divisions held the line in freezing conditions, preventing German breakthrough.
Neuve Chapelle 1915: Indian regiments distinguished themselves in trench warfare.
Gallipoli 1915 - 1916: Indian regiments endured severe losses but fought with determination.
Mesopotamia and Kut 1916: Indian troops carried the campaign in Iraq, enduring heavy casualties.
Haifa 1918: Jodhpur, Mysore, and Hyderabad Lancers liberated the city in one of the last cavalry charges.
North Africa 1942: Indian divisions pivotal at El Alamein in defeating Rommel.
Monte Cassino 1944: Indian 4th Division broke the German stronghold, opening the road to Rome.
East Africa 1940 - 1941: Indian units contributed to the liberation of Ethiopia from Axis control.
Get Involved
1
Adopt the Marigold as a Symbol
Wear a marigold flower or marigold pin during the weeks leading up to Remembrance Day.
Encourage community members to do the same as a mark of respect and remembrance for Indian soldiers.
2
Remembrance Ceremonies
Contact parish councils, town councils, or local veterans’ organisations.
Request permission to lay a wreath specifically in memory of Indian soldiers.
Incorporate marigolds into the wreath alongside traditional poppies to represent India’s sacrifice.
3
Education and Public Awareness
Speak at schools, workplaces, and community events about India’s role in the world wars.
Share stories of Indian soldiers’ bravery and sacrifices to broaden recognition.
Promote the marigold pin alongside the poppy as a visible symbol of remembrance.
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