Neuve Chapelle Memorial, France
Technical Data
| Stamp Set | India in World War I : Indian War Memorials |
|---|---|
| Date of Issue | August 20, 2019 |
| Denomination | Rs. 5 |
| Quantity | 500,000 |
| Perforation | 13¾ x 13¼ |
| Printer | Security Printing Press, Hyderabad |
| Printing Process | Wet Offset |
| Watermark | No Watermark |
| Colors | Multicolor |
| Credit (Designed By) | Sh. Brahm Prakash |
| Catalog Codes |
Michel IN 3553A Stamp Number IN 3141 Yvert et Tellier IN 3236 Stanley Gibbons IN 3636 |
| Themes | First World War | Monuments |
The Neuve Chapelle Memorial in France stands as a solemn tribute to the Indian soldiers who fought and sacrificed their lives during the First World War (1914–1918). Erected in honour of the brave Indian troops who laid down their lives on the battlefields of France and Belgium, the memorial is dedicated especially to those who have no known grave.
Commemoration and Inauguration
The memorial was inaugurated on 7 October 1927, serving as a lasting symbol of India’s immense contribution to the Great War. It commemorates the memory of thousands of Indian soldiers who fought valiantly as part of the Indian Expeditionary Force ‘A’ on the Western Front.
Indian Participation in Europe
During the war, nearly 85,000 Indian soldiers under 1,500 British officers served in France and Belgium, supported by 26,000 Indian non-combatants. They took part in major battles including Ypres, Festubert, Givenchy, Neuve Chapelle, Loos, and Cambrai, displaying unmatched courage and endurance. The Indian Corps suffered over 34,000 casualties, reflecting the depth of India’s sacrifice for a cause beyond its own borders.
Design and Symbolism
The memorial, designed by Sir Herbert Baker, features a large central pillar surrounded by symbolic carvings and inscriptions that pay homage to the fallen. The names of over 4,700 Indian soldiers whose bodies were never recovered are engraved on its walls. The architecture blends classical and Indian motifs, signifying the unity of Eastern valour and Western remembrance.
Legacy and Significance
The Neuve Chapelle Memorial is a poignant reminder of the global role played by Indian soldiers in the First World War. It honours not only their bravery and sacrifice but also India’s early step toward recognition on the world stage. The memorial stands as a historic testament to the shared legacy of courage, sacrifice, and remembrance between India and France.