‘History is a living and evolving tapestry of human experiences and narratives’

At a time when countries around the world were busy fighting for what was rightfully theirs, countries like India were fighting a silent battle, not for themselves but for other countries and ironically for their oppressor. More than 1.3 million Indian soldiers participated in the British Indian Army and fought at different battle zones throughout World War 1. Unfortunately, India’s significant military contribution was greatly undermined by Britain, said Githa.

The beginning of the First World War in 1914 unleashed unprecedented havoc across the world. Often referred to as the “Great War” it had a profound impact on the economic, social and political landscapes of the countries involved.

At a time when countries around the world were busy fighting for what was rightfully theirs, countries like India were fighting a silent battle, not for themselves but for other countries and ironically for their oppressor. More than 1.3 million Indian soldiers participated in the British Indian Army and fought at different battle zones throughout World War 1. Unfortunately, India’s significant military contribution was greatly undermined by Britain, said Githa.

To commemorate the outstanding contributions of Indian soldiers on November 11 Armistice Day, Githa U. Badikillaya, the founder and trustee of Destination Heritage, delivered a talk titled Bangalore’s Lost Voice in World War I at the Bangalore International Centre. She delved into historical archives to shed light on the forgotten military presence in Bangalore during World War I.

Emphasizing the importance of remembering our military history Githa said, “History is not a stagnant entity, it is a living, and evolving tapestry of human experiences and narratives worth understanding.”

The Indian troops fought in countries like France, Egypt, Swizz Canal, East Africa, West Africa and Mesopotamia. She spoke of the contribution of notable figures like Mysore Maharaja Nalvadi Krishnaraja Wadiyar, WWI’s commanding officer Col. Desaraja Urs, Risaldar A. Lingaraj Urs, Turab Ali, Bahadur Chamaraj Urs and others.

Krishna Raja Wadiyar sent his brother-in-law Col J. Desaraj Urs, the chief commandant of the Mysore State Troops, as his representative to the Battle of Haifa (1918). The State also sent supplies of hides, timber, blankets and other materials. The Mahila Seva Samaj helped stitch sweaters, stockings, pillow covers.

Capt. Meer Turan Ali also played a decisive role in the Battle of Haifa. Sirdar Bahadur B. Chamaraj Urs served in Egypt in October 1914 as the Commandant of the Imperial Service Troop.