A NEW film shines a light on the contribution of Indian soliders during both world wars,
The Sikh Soldier: A Short Film Honouring Forgotten Heroes was recently screened
to an audience of over 300 at Kings High Hall in Warwick.
Among the audience were Warwickshire’s Lord Lieutenant and High Sheriff, the chairman of Warwick District Council, and the mayors of Coventry, Leamington and Warwick respectively.
Organised and co-funded by the Gursewak Trust and the Sikh Heritage Association Warwick and Leamington, (SHAWL) the poignant film delves into the story of a Sikh Soldier fighting in the trenches of the Great War.
Baljinder Singh Rai, Chair of SHAWL said “The film is more than just a historical
portrayal.
“The Sikh Soldier aims to shed light on the often-overlooked contributions of Indian soldiers, particularly Sikhs, in both world wars. The film poignantly highlights the immense sacrifices made by this community, with a staggering 83,000 Sikhs losing their lives and over 100,000 wounded during these conflicts.”
The film was made over three years by filmmakers Joe Archer and Sky Cheema.
It has resonated deeply with audiences, earning a nomination for Best Short Film of the Year 2023.
The screening served as a reminder of the bravery and resilience of the Sikh community, sparking important conversations about historical recognition and representation.
Educationalists who attended spoke of the film as an important resource to form
part of teaching in secondary schools.
SHAWL is discussing how this suggestion can
be taken forward together with further public screenings.
Filmmakers Joe Archer and Sky Cheema.
Pal Singh Sanghera of the Gursewak Trust & Shawl, High Sherriff elect Rajvinder Kaur Gill and Lord Lieutenant Tim Cox.
