Renowned historian Yasmin Khan, author of "The Raj at War", reveals the overlooked narrative of the Indian Army's vital contributions in World War II. She discusses the camaraderie built between Indian and British troops, despite the racial inequities they faced. Key topics include the tragic decision to abandon Indian soldiers during Dunkirk and the rise of Indian leaders' civil disobedience in response to British policies. Khan's insights connect these historical events to the seeds of India's independence movement and highlight the complexities of loyalty and sacrifice.
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Commonwealth Gates Origin
The Commonwealth Gates, commemorating Commonwealth soldiers in WWII, were realized through Baroness Srila Flather's efforts.
Her charm and persistence were key to getting the gates built despite initial resistance.
insights INSIGHT
Recent Recognition
Recognition of Commonwealth soldiers' WWII contributions is recent, with the Commonwealth Gates erected only in 2002.
Before then, there was little reflection on their role in the war effort.
insights INSIGHT
New Delhi's Symbolism and Fall
New Delhi, completed in 1929, symbolized British permanence.
Yet, within 17 years, British rule ended, highlighting a rapid shift in power dynamics.
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This book explores the often-overlooked history of India during World War II, detailing the country's significant contributions to the war effort and the profound social, economic, and political changes that ensued. It delves into the experiences of ordinary Indians, from soldiers to civilians, and examines how these changes shaped India's path towards independence.
Chelsea's 7-7
Chelsea's 7-7
Michael Gove
Defeat into Victory
Battling Japan in Burma and India, 1942-1945
William Slim
This book is an account of Field Marshal William Slim's command during the Burmese campaign of 1942-1945. It describes the British Army's retreat into India following the Japanese invasion, the battles of Imphal and Kohima, and the eventual recapture of Rangoon. Slim emphasizes the importance of proper training, equipment, and morale in turning a defeated army into a victorious force. The memoir is praised for its insightful and self-critical approach to military leadership and its enduring principles of command.
For many years, commemorations of the two World Wars excluded the memorialisation of soldiers from the British Empire. But campaigners have gradually turned the spotlight on their experiences.
In the First and Second World War, approximately 3.8 million soldiers from the Indian subcontinent served in the British Army. Indian and British troops often formed friendships that lasted beyond the wars, bonded in their camaraderie and bravery. Yet there was a ceiling for Indian soldiers, they would never go on to receive top jobs or become commanders. And despite camaraderie on the front, the top generals saw Indians as lesser. During the evacuation of Dunkirk, the British were given the order to “cut loose your Indians and your mules”. This horrified leaders in Delhi and despite Nehru’s passionate antifascism, the Congress began small acts of civil disobedience in protest of India being placed in a war that it didn’t sign up to.
Listen as William and Anita are joined by Yasmin Khan to discuss the Raj at War, and how World War Two became a catalyst for the end of British rule in India…
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Empire 
