barublogRunning for a Cause – A Tribute to Sikh Soldiers
A dedicated volunteer is set to make history at the Brighton Marathon by running in a period Sikh Regiment uniform to pay tribute to the valiant Sikh soldiers of World War I.
Inspired by the Royal Pavilion’s History
Angad Singh, 27, was deeply inspired by the Royal Pavilion’s historical significance as a wartime hospital for Indian soldiers. His involvement with the United Kingdom Punjabi Heritage Association’s (UKPHA) Empire, Faith & War project motivated him to raise awareness and funds to honor Sikh soldiers’ contributions.
The Untold Story of Sikh Bravery in WWI
The Sikh community, despite its smaller size, played a disproportionately large role in the Great War. However, their sacrifices remain largely unrecognized in mainstream history. Angad Singh hopes that his marathon run will shed light on this crucial part of history while supporting UKPHA’s research and preservation efforts.
A Personal Connection to History
Volunteering for UKPHA led Singh to an emotional discovery—several soldiers from his ancestral village in India lost their lives in World War I. This newfound connection reinforced his commitment to raising awareness about Sikh contributions during the war.
Marathon Preparation and Challenges
Singh’s training is progressing well, but he acknowledges the difficulty of running in a traditional Sikh Regiment uniform, which is made of heavy cotton, unlike modern sportswear. Despite the challenge, he remains determined to complete the race successfully.
Fundraising for a Noble Cause
Angad Singh has already raised over £1,000 and aims to reach a £10,000 target to support UKPHA’s mission of preserving Sikh heritage.
Engaging the Public – A Pre-Marathon Event
Before the marathon, Singh will participate in an interactive session at Brighton Museum on April 11, featuring talks and hands-on activities to educate the public about Sikh soldiers’ contributions during the war.
Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa, Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh!
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