Proposal submitted for Sikh War Memorial in Southall
Wed 08 Apr 2026
The initiative, funded entirely through private contributions, is intended to honour Sikh soldiers who served in the British Indian Army.
The British Sikh Association is listed as the applicant, while architectural documents identify Conservative peer Lord Rami Ranger as the main commissioner of the project.
Initially, Ealing Council had approved a site opposite the former fire station for the memorial. The location was later moved to Manor House Grounds to better integrate with existing memorials in the park and create a consolidated commemorative area.
The estimated cost of the project is up to £2 million. If given the go-ahead, construction is expected to begin between July and August this year, with completion anticipated by August or September.
The memorial will include a 1.8-metre bronze statue of a Sikh soldier, mounted on a shin beige granite padstone and encircled by three 175mm-high steps made of beige travertine stone.
An engraved stone will feature a prayer that reads: “GRANT ME THIS BLESSING O GOD, MAY I NEVER REFRAIN FROM RIGHTEOUS ACTS.” The dedication will specifically honour "SIKH SOLDIERS OF THE BRITISH INDIAN ARMY WHO FOUGHT IN THE TWO WORLD WARS," attributed to the Sikh Soldier Organisation.
The monument is designed to recognise the historic contributions and sacrifices of Sikh soldiers who served alongside British forces, particularly during the two World Wars and the Battle of Saragarhi.
The Battle of Saragarhi, fought in September 1897, is celebrated as one of history’s most heroic last stands. A mere 21 soldiers of the 36th Sikh Regiment defended their post against an estimated 10,000 to 12,000 Afghan tribesmen, choosing to fight to the death rather than retreat.
The planning application is currently under consultation, with feedback open until 28 April 2026.
Photo credit: Ace Engineering Solutions/Ealing Council
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