Indian War Memorial : Indians in First World War
Technical Data
| Stamp Set | India in World War I |
|---|---|
| Date of Issue | August 20, 2019 |
| Denomination | Rs. 45 |
| Quantity | 110,000 |
| Perforation | 13¼ x 13¾ |
| Printer | Security Printing Press, Hyderabad |
| Printing Process | Wet Offset |
| Watermark | No Watermark |
| Colors | Multicolor |
| Credit (Designed By) | Sh. Brahm Prakash |
| Catalog Codes |
Michel IN BL217 Stamp Number IN 3144a Yvert et Tellier IN BF204 Stanley Gibbons IN MS3640 |
| Themes | First World War | Gates | Monuments |
A Tribute to India’s Bravehearts
The Indian War Memorial stands as a timeless tribute to the courage, sacrifice, and unwavering spirit of Indian soldiers who fought during the First World War (1914–1918) and beyond. These memorials, built across India and several parts of the world, commemorate the bravery of over 1.4 million Indian soldiers who served in various theatres of war, often thousands of miles away from home.
Through beautifully designed architecture and heartfelt inscriptions, the Indian War Memorials keep alive the memory of those who gave their lives for honour, duty, and humanity.
India Gate, New Delhi
The India Gate, one of the most iconic war memorials in the world, stands proudly in the heart of New Delhi. Designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens and inaugurated in 1931, it commemorates the soldiers of the British Indian Army who fell during the First World War and the Afghan Campaign.
Inscribed on its surface are the names of more than 13,000 soldiers who laid down their lives in distant lands like France, Flanders, Mesopotamia, Persia, and East Africa. Beneath its arch burns the Amar Jawan Jyoti, a flame that was added in 1972 after the Indo-Pak War, symbolising India’s eternal gratitude to its fallen heroes. The India Gate today is not merely a memorial — it is a living shrine of national pride and remembrance.
Teen Murti Haifa Memorial, New Delhi
Another significant Indian War Memorial is the Teen Murti Haifa Memorial, located near the Teen Murti Bhavan in New Delhi. It honours the Hyderabad, Mysore, and Jodhpur Lancers who achieved a legendary victory by capturing Haifa (now in Israel) on 23 September 1918 during the First World War.
This remains the only instance in world military history where a fortified city was captured entirely by cavalry action. The Battle of Haifa is commemorated every year on Haifa Day, celebrating the valour of Indian soldiers who rode fearlessly into battle.
Neuve Chapelle Memorial, France
Located in northern France, the Neuve Chapelle Indian Memorial is dedicated to the Indian soldiers who fought and fell on the Western Front and have no known graves. Inaugurated on 7 October 1927, it bears the names of over 4,700 Indian soldiers, honouring their sacrifice in a foreign land.
The memorial stands not only as a reminder of their courage but also as a symbol of India’s deep ties with global peace efforts.
Patcham Memorial, Brighton, United Kingdom
The Patcham Memorial, built by the people of Brighton, commemorates 74 Indian soldiers who died while receiving medical treatment during the war. Brighton had converted its royal pavilions and hospitals to care for wounded Indian troops, reflecting the respect and gratitude of the local citizens.
This memorial remains an enduring symbol of compassion and friendship between India and the United Kingdom.
Menin Gate Memorial, Ypres, Belgium
At the Menin Gate Memorial in Ypres, Belgium, the names of more than 10,000 Indian servicemen are inscribed among those who died defending the Ypres Salient. Their sacrifice ensured that the ideals of liberty and peace endured. The daily Last Post Ceremony, held here since 1928, continues to honour all soldiers who fought for freedom, including the brave Indians who stood shoulder to shoulder with the Allies.
Indian Great War Memorial, Villers Guislain, France
Unveiled in 2018, the Indian Great War Memorial at Villers Guislain is located near the battlefield where Lance Dafadar Gobind Singh of the 28th Light Cavalry earned the Victoria Cross for exceptional bravery. This memorial is a modern tribute to the undying courage of Indian soldiers and their immense contribution to the Great War.
Legacy of Honour
The Indian War Memorials across the world are more than stone and marble — they are living testaments to the indomitable courage and selfless service of Indian soldiers. Each memorial tells a story of honour, sacrifice, and the enduring quest for peace.
Through commemorative issues like the Indian War Memorial Stamp, India Post honours these brave souls, reminding future generations of the price paid for freedom and the values that unite humanity beyond borders.