Menin Gate Memorial, Ypres, Belgium
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 3551A Stamp Number IN 3139 Yvert et Tellier IN 3234 Stanley Gibbons IN 3634 |
| Themes | First World War | Gates | Monuments |
Honouring the Indian Soldiers of the First World War
The First World War (1914–1918) was a watershed moment in modern world history a conflict that redrew political boundaries, transformed societies, and changed the course of nations. India, though still under colonial rule, played a remarkable role in this global event. Driven by a spirit of loyalty and a hope for dominion status, India contributed immensely in men, material, and morale. By the end of the war, nearly 1.4 million Indians had served overseas, with around 74,000 soldiers making the ultimate sacrifice. Their courage earned over 9,200 decorations for gallantry, including 11 Victoria Crosses the highest military honour for bravery in the British Empire.
Among the many theatres of war where Indian soldiers fought valiantly, the Western Front in France and Belgium stands out for the sheer scale of their contribution and the magnitude of their sacrifice. It is here that the Menin Gate Memorial in Ypres, Belgium, stands as an enduring tribute to their bravery.
Menin Gate Memorial – A Symbol of Eternal Honour
Located in the historic town of Ypres (Ieper), the Menin Gate Memorial was built to commemorate soldiers of the British Empire who died in Belgium during the First World War and have no known grave. Among the names inscribed on its vast walls are over 10,000 Indian soldiers, who fought and perished on the battlefields of the Ypres Salient one of the most fiercely contested fronts of the war.
Indian troops played a crucial role during the First and Second Battles of Ypres in October 1914 and April 1915. Despite facing unfamiliar terrain, harsh weather, and relentless chemical warfare, they fought with unyielding courage to defend the Allied positions. Their resilience and valour earned admiration across ranks and nations, but for many of these brave men, the fields of Flanders became their final resting place their names immortalized on the walls of the Menin Gate.
India’s Contribution on the Western Front
Designated as Indian Expeditionary Force “A”, the Indian Corps that served in France and Belgium from September 1914 consisted of two infantry and two cavalry divisions around 85,000 Indian soldiers under 1,500 British officers, supported by 26,000 Indian non-combatants. They fought in some of the fiercest battles of the war, including Ypres, Festubert, Givenchy, Neuve Chapelle, Second Ypres, Cambrai, and Loos, suffering over 34,000 casualties in the process.
Their courage under fire, despite facing racial discrimination and extreme conditions, became a defining chapter in India’s military history. Many of these soldiers came from Punjab, Garhwal, and the princely states, leaving behind their families and homeland to fight a war far away for a freedom they had yet to claim for themselves.
A Daily Act of Remembrance
The Menin Gate Memorial is not only a monument of stone but also a living symbol of remembrance. Every evening since 1928, the Last Post Ceremony is performed at the Menin Gate by local buglers a solemn act honouring those who fell and never returned. The sound of the bugle resonates across Ypres, reminding the world of the sacrifice of thousands of soldiers, including those from India, who laid down their lives for peace.
India’s Legacy in the Great War
The Menin Gate Memorial stands as one among several monuments across the world that commemorate India’s contribution to the First World War. Others include the India Gate in New Delhi, the Teen Murti Haifa Memorial, and the Neuve Chapelle Memorial in France. Together, they embody the shared history of sacrifice, courage, and comradeship that India brought to the world stage during the Great War.
As a recognition of this enduring legacy, a commemorative postage stamp has been issued to honour the Menin Gate Memorial — symbolizing India’s deep respect for her soldiers who fought for justice and peace on foreign soil.
A Tribute Beyond Borders
The Menin Gate continues to inspire generations with its message of honour, remembrance, and unity. For India, it is not just a monument in a distant land — it is a bridge connecting history, heritage, and humanity. The brave Indian soldiers who fought in Ypres may rest in unmarked graves, but their courage lives on etched forever in stone, spirit, and memory.