Project Background
During World War I, over 1.4 million Indian soldiers and 650,000 Canadian soldiers served, with many fighting side by side on the Western Front. Indian soldiers arrived in Europe in 1914 and played a crucial role in key battles like Ypres, Neuve Chapelle, the Somme, and Vimy Ridge. The memorial aims to honor their sacrifices and highlight the forgotten story of their collaboration.
Mission
To highlight the forgotten story of collaboration between Indian and Canadian soldiers on the Western Front in Europe. The memorial will reflect the lessons from their heroism, sacrifices, and voices of liberation.
Vision
To commemorate the valour of Indian and Canadian Brothers In Arms and to inspire future generations to uphold the values of humanity and freedom.
Phases of the Memorial
Phase 1: Living Guard of Honour
Completed in May 2018 for the WWI Centennial, the Living Guard of Honour was the first step in commemorating the bravery of Indian and Canadian soldiers who fought side by side. This phase introduced a ceremonial space featuring symbolic elements that reflect the unity and sacrifice of these soldiers. The Living Guard of Honour consists of a formation of trees representing the enduring bond between the two nations, symbolizing strength, resilience, and remembrance.
The trees stand tall like soldiers on the battlefield, representing those who never returned home. Each tree is dedicated to a regiment or battalion that played a crucial role in World War I. The space also includes plaques with inscriptions that tell the story of the soldiers’ struggles, courage, and contributions. The unveiling ceremony in 2018 was attended by veterans, historians, and families of the fallen, ensuring that their memories live on for future generations.
Phase 2: Granite Rock Memorial
The second phase of the memorial, set to be completed by November 11, 2026, will feature a Granite Rock Memorial with hand-carved battlefield scenes. These intricate carvings will depict significant moments from battles such as Ypres, Neuve Chapelle, the Somme, and Vimy Ridge, where Indian and Canadian soldiers fought side by side.
The memorial will serve as a lasting tribute, etched in stone, to remind visitors of the soldiers' hardships and sacrifices. The battlefield carvings will be created by skilled artisans who will ensure that every detail—from the expressions of the soldiers to the chaotic yet courageous battle scenes—captures the essence of war.
Additionally, the Granite Rock Memorial will have an interactive digital display, allowing visitors to learn about individual soldiers’ stories, the history of each regiment, and personal letters written from the frontlines. This will create an immersive and educational experience, ensuring that the sacrifices made over a century ago are never forgotten.
Purpose of the Memorial Site
- Recognizing the 135,000+ Indian soldiers who fought alongside Canadians: The memorial serves as a tribute to the Indian soldiers who fought shoulder to shoulder with Canadian forces during World War I. Their contributions, courage, and resilience on the battlefield played a vital role in key battles, yet their stories have often been overlooked in mainstream historical narratives. By recognizing their service, the memorial aims to bring their sacrifices into the public consciousness and ensure they receive the respect and remembrance they deserve.
- Preserving stories of bravery and sacrifice: Many Indian and Canadian soldiers displayed extraordinary bravery, enduring harsh conditions, intense combat, and significant hardships in their pursuit of freedom and peace. This memorial will safeguard their stories, ensuring that their heroism is not forgotten. Through historical records, personal accounts, and visual storytelling, it will serve as a permanent space where future generations can learn about the immense sacrifices made on the battlefield.
- Educating the public on this lesser-known chapter of history: The collaboration between Indian and Canadian soldiers in World War I remains an underrepresented part of military history. This memorial seeks to bridge that gap by providing educational resources, historical insights, and engaging narratives that highlight the significance of their contributions. Schools, researchers, and visitors will have access to a wealth of information, fostering a deeper appreciation of the shared history and values that bind Canada and India.
Location of Memorial Site
The memorial will be located in London, Ontario, featuring a Granite Rock Memorial with battlefield carvings, a Living Guard of Honour, and a Memorial Park with pathways, plaques, and landscaping.