Historian reveals why Indian Sikhs should be commemorated on Anzac Day
When the going got tough, these were the soldiers you wanted to protect your back.
The Indian Sikhs make up just two per cent of the Indian population, "but in both world wars they represented more than a quarter of the Indian commonwealth contribution", Australian Sikh historian and community leader Amar Singh said.
"Sikhs are a peaceful people. But in times of trouble throughout history they have stepped up to help communities, fight for justice and are fierce warriors," Singh said.
Australian Sikh historian and community leader Amar Singh. A Current Affair
Indian Sikhs fought alongside Australian soldiers. A Current Affair
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"Sikh soldiers literally fought to the last man. Many Sikh regiments were wiped out during the Great War."
Australian soldiers found firm friendships with Indian Sikhs on the battlefield.
Aside from their outstanding combat prowess, Australians found people who were open, warm and friendly.
The Sikh tradition of serving continues in Australia. A Current Affair
Australian soldiers found firm friendships with Indian Sikhs on the battlefield. A Current Affair
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"And they brought tasty meals they often shared with Aussie soldiers on the front line, far better than any bully beef Australians ate," Amar said.
Nineteen Australian Sikhs died in the first world war.
Today the Australian Defence Force has many Sikhs enlisted as the Sikh tradition of serving continues.
As Amar said: "The spirit of serving and the need of the country is more overwhelming than their own lives."
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