South Asian soldiers were commemorated for their role in both world wars in a new multi-faith event.

Undivided Indian soldiers who fought for our country were honoured at the service at India Gate at the Royal Pavilion on Saturday.

The commemoration was hosted by Brighton and Hove Mayor Councillor Mohammed Asaduzzaman and members of Brighton and Hove Multicultural Group.

Soldiers from Undivided India including modern-day India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, Sri Lanka and Myanmar (Burma) played a significant part in ensuring victory in both world wars.

This new annual multi-faith event aims to build greater awareness of their role.

Mayor Councillor Mohammed Asaduzzaman speaking at the Commemoration (Image: Rose Jones) Cllr Asaduzzaman, the city's first South Asian mayor, said: “I am delighted to be hosting the first Undivided India Gate Commemoration, which is set to become an annual event in our welcoming and inclusive city.

“Soldiers from across South Asia are a key part of our city’s history. Focusing on our shared heritage, and acknowledging the sacrifices they and others made, fosters a strong sense of community. 

"It serves as a bridge to connect people from diverse backgrounds, promote understanding and break down social barriers.”

During the First World War, more than 1.5 million soldiers from Undivided India served in the British Indian Army and in the Second World War, more than 2.5 million soldiers made up the largest volunteer army in history.

In addition to combat, Muslim and Buddhist soldiers served in support roles that contributed to the overall war effort.

The India Gate was the main stage for the commemoration (Image: Rose Jones) Buildings in the city, including the Royal Pavilion, Dome and Corn Exchange, were converted into military hospitals during the First World War to care for around 12,000 Indian soldiers wounded fighting on the Western Front.

The Indian hospitals are marked by two monuments in Brighton, the Chattri on the Downs and the India Gate at the southern entrance to Pavilion Gardens.

The India Gate was presented to the people of Brighton by the "princes and people of India" as a gesture of thanks for the care provided by the town’s hospitals and is dedicated to the use of the inhabitants of Brighton.

Members of the public attending the Commemoration (Image: Rose Jones) Councillor Mitchie Alexander, cabinet member for culture, heritage and tourism, said: “The India Gate was gifted to our city over a hundred years ago and the new annual event will bring together our brothers and sisters of differing religions and cultural backgrounds, to stand together to honour and respect the many from South Asia who left their homes and families to help in both the First and the Second World War.    

“As a city that strives for inclusion for all, it is very important that we are given every opportunity to recognise, remember and celebrate together, no matter our uniqueness."

The photos were captured by Rose Jones of The Argus Camera Club.