UK
The Sikh Military Foundation Launches ‘The Sikh Subedar – The Sikh Sergeant’ Campaign at London’s Historic Punjab Restaurant. The Sikh Military Foundation has unveiled its latest campaign, “The Sikh Subedar – The Sikh Sergeant,” in a heartfelt tribute to Sikh soldiers who served in both World Wars. The launch took place at the iconic Punjab Restaurant in London, the oldest Punjabi restaurant in the UK, founded in 1946 by the great-grandfather of its current owner, Amrit S Maan OBE.
Held in the lead-up to Remembrance Sunday and Armistice Day, the event was dedicated to honoring the sacrifices of Sikh soldiers, whose contributions to global peace and freedom are often overlooked. The campaign’s guests included Air Vice Marshall Ranald Munro, the Armed Forces’ Sikh Champion Colonel Alaistair Carns MP, Preet Gill MP, Jas Athwal MP, Lord Kulveer Ranger, Patron of the Foundation, and Sardar Gurpreet Singh Anand from the Central Gurdwara (Khalsa Jatha).
The “Sikh Subedar” campaign features a striking silhouette of a Sikh soldier, adorned with symbols of Sikh faith, including the Dastar (turban), Kes (uncut hair), and Kara (iron bangle). The design, created by Satveer Singh Padam, symbolizes “resilience, bravery, and spirit,” aiming to increase awareness of the Sikh soldiers’ sacrifices. “This silhouette honors the Sikh Soldier, a timeless symbol of courage, honor, and sacrifice. It embodies a legacy of strength and resilience,” said Padam.
Amrit S Maan OBE, reflecting on the campaign’s launch at Punjab Restaurant, said, “This restaurant was established by my grandfather and has been a part of London’s cultural landscape for nearly 80 years. It is an honor to use this space to remember and celebrate the bravery of Sikh soldiers. Their legacy is a source of pride for the Sikh community and for all of us who value freedom and peace.”
During the two World Wars, approximately 84,000 Sikhs sacrificed their lives, and the campaign aims to ensure their legacy is remembered. The “Sikh Subedar” campaign, active on Instagram, X, and Facebook at @SikhSubedar, will feature educational outreach, merchandise, and community events. This initiative will raise awareness and inspire the wider public to honor the valor of Sikh soldiers.
The Sikh Military Foundation’s campaign is a powerful reminder of the Sikh community’s enduring contributions to peace and resilience—a legacy worth celebrating and preserving for generations to come.
