I attended the Empire Faith and War ("EFW") exhibition, held at the University of London (School of Oriental and African Studies) in late 2014, such exhibition organised by the UK Punjab Heritage Association ("UKPHA").

The UKPHA sought, by way of the EFW project, to raise awareness of the contribution and sacrifice of Sikh and other soldiers from the Indian sub-continent in the First World War, which contribution had over the passage of time become lost or forgotten.

I attended the exhibition with my wife and two young sons, Jai and Dara. We were fortunate enough to see some beautifully preserved Sikh artefacts (which were part of private collection) and a wealth of information in respect of the First World War, all of which was supported by guidance and insight from a member of the EFW team.

Please visit the following website for more information.

www.empirefaithwar.com

We were all moved by what we saw and heard, in what was from our perspective at least, an untold story. The bravery of Sikh and other soldiers from the Indian sub-continent was nothing short of astounding. 

On a personal level, I felt and continue to feel an immense sense of pride in respect of the contribution and sacrifice of these brave warriors. More importantly I was able to illustrate to my sons, at least in part, the history, heritage and nobility associated with their middle name, "Singh".

I am therefore offering my support to the UKPHA and the EFW team to raise funds so that they can carry on their good work, to create educational packs, free publications and hopefully, a documentary about this relatively unknown part of British and Sikh history. 

Brighton, where I will be running, is of significance. Injured soldiers from the Indian sub-continent were nursed at Brighton Pavilion, soldiers such as Manta Singh who died of his wounds after having saved the life of his British officer. 

He was cremated on a hill above Brighton. His service and that of the other 1.5 million troops from the Indian sub-continent must not be forgotten. This is why I am taking part in the Brighton 10k, in memory of brave men such as Manta Singh. 

With your help they will be remembered. 

Thank you.

Inderpal S Lall