This year’s Remembrance Day service in Sutton Coldfield provided a poignant opportunity to honour the sacrifices of both British and Indian soldiers who served during the First and Second World Wars. Members of the Shri Ram Branch of Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh (UK) participated in the commemoration as part of Mission Marigold, an initiative dedicated to raising awareness of the often-overlooked contribution of Indian servicemen to Britain’s wartime history.

Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh (UK), commonly known as HSS (UK), is a voluntary cultural and community organisation that promotes Hindu values, community service, leadership development, and active citizenship across the United Kingdom. Through educational and community initiatives, HSS (UK) seeks to strengthen social cohesion while celebrating the contributions of people of Indian heritage to British society.

At the remembrance service, members of HSS (UK) proudly wore the traditional remembrance poppy alongside an orange marigold flower. While the poppy is a recognised symbol of remembrance across the United Kingdom, the marigold serves as a tribute to the more than 1.5 million soldiers from the Indian subcontinent who served alongside British forces during the two World Wars. The flower also holds deep cultural significance within Indian traditions, where it is associated with honour, respect, remembrance, and gratitude.

Despite the cold November weather, participants stood with discipline and dignity throughout the service, demonstrating their respect for all those who made the ultimate sacrifice in the service of freedom and peace. Their presence conveyed a powerful message of shared history and mutual respect, highlighting the close bonds forged between British and Indian soldiers on battlefields around the world.

The event was further strengthened by the support of several distinguished guests who wore the marigold in recognition of the contribution of Indian soldiers. These included:

• Andrew Mitchell
• Cindy Yip
• Simon Ward
• Alex Yip

Their participation reinforced the importance of ensuring that the sacrifices of Indian servicemen are recognised as an integral part of Britain’s shared military heritage.

The remembrance of fallen soldiers resonates strongly with Hindu and Indian cultural traditions, which place great importance on honouring those who have served society with courage and selflessness. Acts of remembrance are viewed not only as expressions of gratitude but also as opportunities to educate future generations about the values of duty, sacrifice, and service.

Through Mission Marigold, HSS (UK) continues to help bring greater awareness to the remarkable contribution of Indian soldiers, ensuring that their bravery and sacrifice are remembered alongside those of all who served. By highlighting this shared history, the initiative promotes greater understanding, inclusivity, and appreciation of the diverse communities that have helped shape modern Britain.