Leading members of the British Indian community, Parliamentarians, and representatives of Her Majesty's Armed Forces came together for a special Parliamentary launch and screening of brand new docu-drama 'Saragarhi: The True Story' on November 14. Made in honour of the Sikha who fought at Saragarhi to mark the battle's 120th anniversary, the movie comes after over seven years of research and production by British Army reservist and filmmaker, Captain J Singh-Sohal.
For the first time on the screen, the story comes to light of 21 Sikh soldiers of the 36th Sikh Regiment of Bengal Infantry who found themselves surrounded by 10,000 enemy tribesmen on September 12 1987, during an uprising on the North West Frontier between colonial India and Afghanistan. The event which saw resounding applause in honour of the soldiers was hosted by former Justice and Work and Pensions Minister Shailesh Vara MP. “This film rightly records the outstanding courage and bravery of Sikh soldiers fighting against the odds and paying the ultimate price. It is right that we remember these brave men in the Mother of Parliaments, and I congratulate Captain Jay Singh-Sohal for his commitment and dedication over many years in making this remarkable film. The film not only informs the public, but it will also be a valuable resource for historians in the years to come.”
Filmed in India, Pakistan, and the UK, the film gives a unique access to private archives, never-before-seen images, stunning visual graphics and effects teamed together with re-enactment scenes. Captain Singh-Sohal said, “It is a unique and fitting way to honour the memory of the men who fought at Saragarhi by remembering their bravery and valour in the very Parliament of Queen and country they were fighting for.”
