Sikh Anzac War Memorial unveiled.
PRESS RELEASE:
Unveiling of Sikh Anzac War Memorial: A Symbol of Honour and Unity
Sydney, Australia – A new memorial dedicated to the Sikh soldiers who fought in the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC) during World War I was unveiled on Sunday, March 26, 2023. The Sikh Anzac War Memorial is located at Glenwood Lake Park, in Glenwood, and stands as a testament to the bravery, sacrifice and valour of Sikh soldiers who fought alongside ANZAC forces.
The Sikh Anzac War Memorial has been constructed to honour the significant contribution of Sikh soldiers who fought in the Gallipoli campaign in 1915 and beyond. The memorial also pays tribute to the Sikh community’s strong bond with Australia and New Zealand, which has been built over more than a century.
The monument features a life-size bronze sculpture of an Unknown Sikh soldier in full battle dress, holding a rifle, and a sword is standing atop a plinth adorned with a bronze plaque. The soldier’s turban bears the emblem of the Sikh forces, while his uniform is based on the world war I style adorning the Sikh sword on the side.
The memorial was unveiled by the Mayor of Blacktown City, Director of RSL NSW, City of Blacktown RSL Subbranch, member parliamentarians, alongside Sikh community leaders and veterans. The event was attended by a large number of people from diverse backgrounds, including Australian defence personnel, descendants of soldiers and Sikh immigrants.
“The Sikh Anzac War Memorial is a powerful symbol of the shared history and values of the Sikh and ANZAC communities,” said the chair, Fateh Foundation Inc, Mr. Amarinder Bajwa, who has been working on this project for the past five years. “It recognises the important role played by Sikh soldiers in the ANZAC campaign and celebrates the rich cultural heritage of the Sikh community in Australia.”
The Sikh Anzac War Memorial is the first of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere, and it stands as a symbol of unity, respect and recognition for the contribution of Sikh soldiers to ANZAC history. The monument is expected to become a popular tourist attraction, as well as a place of pilgrimage for the Sikh community, veterans and descendants.
The Sikh Anzac War Memorial is a significant addition to the cultural and historical landscape of Australia and New Zealand, and it will continue to serve as a reminder of the shared sacrifice and honour of the ANZAC and Sikh communities for generations to come.
Mr. Amarinder Bajwa thanked the participation of Sikh personnel from the Australian Defence Force, community organisations and many individuals that came forward to support the project with their skills, donations and support.