The Sculpture

The five-figure bronze sculpture by Mahtab Hussain stands as a powerful tribute to the 2.5 million Indian soldiers who volunteered to serve in the British Indian Army during World War II, the largest volunteer force in history.

Set atop a rocky cliff, the composition features a Hindu female soldier holding the Royal Governor’s flag at the forefront, symbolizing leadership and hope. Surrounding her are representations of a Muslim, Sikh, and Gurkha soldier, embodying the diverse ethnicities and faiths of those who fought valiantly for freedom and democracy.

The sculpture celebrates the unity and sacrifice of soldiers from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Nepal, offering a long-overdue acknowledgment of their pivotal role in the Allied victory. It seeks to rectify historical oversight by creating a meaningful and inclusive memorial, fostering recognition, respect, and dialogue across communities.