A war memorial in honour of South Asian soldiers who fought alongside British troops in the world wars is to be erected in the grounds of Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum.
Plans submitted back in the autumn have been given approval by the city council.
The project will be Scotland’s first permanent memorial to commemorate the sacrifices and contributions of South Asian soldiers.
Veterans Secretary Keith Brown said the structure will play a vital role in “raising awareness of past conflicts and the invaluable contributions” of the 4 million soldiers from the British Indian Army (BIA).
Engagement
In the 75th anniversary year of independence for both Pakistan and India, the Glasgow memorial comes after a six-year campaign by the charity Colourful Heritage which involved consultation, community engagement and multiple follow-ups with Glasgow City Council.
The memorial will include a chattri (dome) design for the roof and natural stone columns to match the museum’s famous architecture.
The final design adopts ideas sent in by more than 100 young people from across Scotland, and will have a digital aspect to engage younger generations as part of education visits.
A project team has been established to oversee the building of the memorial, and architect Stuart Shand has started to procure the materials.
Veterans Secretary Keith Brown MSP said: “The people of Scotland owe a considerable debt of gratitude to those who fought and died on our behalf, including those from Commonwealth nations who came to aid this country during its time of need.
“The bravery and commitment of the British Indian Army was vital in defending the freedoms we enjoy today and deserves recognition.
This memorial will ensure that for centuries to come we never forget the service and sacrifice of those from overseas who answered Britain’s call.
Omar Shaikh
“This memorial plays a vital role in raising awareness of past conflicts and the invaluable contributions of the British Indian Army.
“I am delighted that through the work of Colourful Heritage and their memorial working group that these links are being acknowledged and forever more remembered.”
Anas Sarwar, Scottish Labour leader and MSP for Glasgow, who has worked with Colourful Heritage since the start of the campaign, said: “Reading aloud in the Scottish Parliament the names of the soldiers who lost their lives was an incredibly poignant moment for me, and I’m proud to have been involved in the campaign for a memorial.
“It has taken a lot longer to get to this stage than I hoped, but I’m thrilled that a permanent memorial has finally got the go-ahead, and I pay tribute to Colourful Heritage, Glasgow City Council and to Scottish Government ministers who have positively engaged with us from the very start.”
Pam Gosal, Scottish Conservative MSP for West Scotland, welcomed the project, and said: “As the first female MSP from an Indian background, I wholeheartedly welcome the news that the BIA memorial in Glasgow is to go ahead.
“I will be proud to see the 4 million-plus soldiers from the British Indian Army receive the recognition they deserve.”
Omar Shaikh, founder of the charity Colourful Heritage, said: “This memorial will ensure that for centuries to come we never forget the service and sacrifice of those from overseas who answered Britain’s call.
“But the memorial for us is not the target, it is a means to an end… that end is to ensure that everyone in Scotland and Europe understands the contribution of BIA towards protecting this country and understands the shared values between the soldiers that were on the front line, be they from Europe or south Asia."
