Battle of Saragarhi: A battle that holds a special place in hearts of Sikhs | Know History
Battle of Saragarhi: The Battle of Saragarhi, fought on September 12, 1897, remains one of the most valorous last stands in military history. It was a battle that exemplified unmatched bravery, sacrifice, and the indomitable spirit of 21 Sikh soldiers from the British Indian Army. Despite facing overwhelming odds, these soldiers held their ground against thousands of Afghan tribesmen in a heroic effort that continues to be remembered and honoured, especially within the Sikh community.
Historical Background
The Battle of Saragarhi was part of the larger Tirah Campaign on the northwestern frontier of British India, near the Khyber Pass. During this period, the British were engaged in several conflicts with Afghan tribes who opposed their control over the region. The region of the North-West Frontier Province (now Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan) was a highly strategic area, serving as a gateway between India and Central Asia.
Saragarhi was a small signaling post situated between Fort Lockhart and Fort Gulistan in the rugged terrain of the Samana Range. The two forts were part of a defensive line constructed by the British to maintain communication across the difficult landscape. Saragarhi’s position was critical because it housed a heliographic communication system, a primitive but essential method of signaling using mirrors to reflect sunlight.
The post was manned by 21 soldiers of the 36th Sikh Regiment (later known as the 4th Battalion of the Sikh Regiment). Their leader was Havildar Ishar Singh, a seasoned soldier known for his discipline and courage. On September 12, 1897, the men stationed at Saragarhi were unaware that they were about to face an attack that would etch their names in history.
In the early hours of September 12, Saragarhi came under siege by an estimated 10,000 to 12,000 Pashtun tribesmen. These Afghan forces sought to overrun the outpost and disrupt the British communication system by capturing Saragarhi. Realising that their position was severely outnumbered, the Sikh soldiers knew they had little hope of reinforcement. Fort Lockhart, though within visual range, was unable to provide immediate assistance due to the overwhelming number of enemy forces.
As the battle began, the Sikh soldiers displayed incredible resolve, repelling wave after wave of attacks. Havildar Ishar Singh and his men decided to make their final stand at the signaling post. Though heavily outnumbered, they fought relentlessly, using every means at their disposal to delay the enemy. The attackers were determined to breach the fort, while the Sikhs were equally determined to defend their position at any cost.
For several hours, the 21 Sikh soldiers valiantly defended Saragarhi. According to reports, the tribesmen tried repeatedly to scale the walls of the post but were met with fierce resistance. The Sikhs’ use of accurate rifle fire from within the fort inflicted heavy casualties on the attackers.
As the battle raged on, Havildar Ishar Singh ordered his men to hold their positions while he led several defensive maneuvers. One of the most remarkable acts of courage during the battle came from Sepoy Gurmukh Singh, who continued to signal the events of the battle to Fort Lockhart until the very end. His last message reportedly stated, "The enemy is at the gates," as the post was finally overrun.
Eventually, after hours of intense fighting, the Afghan forces managed to breach the walls of Saragarhi. Despite knowing that death was inevitable, the Sikh soldiers refused to surrender. In their final moments, they engaged in hand-to-hand combat with the enemy, fighting until the last man fell. All 21 soldiers perished in the battle, but their sacrifice delayed the Afghan advance long enough to allow Fort Lockhart and Fort Gulistan to prepare their defenses.
The Pashtun attackers suffered immense losses, with estimates suggesting that between 180 and 600 tribesmen were killed in the confrontation. The bravery of the Sikhs had not only inflicted significant damage on the enemy but had also upheld the honour of their regiment and the Indian Army.
Recognition and Legacy
The Battle of Saragarhi became a symbol of extraordinary courage and selflessness. All 21 soldiers were posthumously awarded the Indian Order of Merit, the highest award for gallantry at the time given to Indian soldiers by the British. This remains the only instance in history where an entire unit has received this honour collectively.
The battle holds a special place in the hearts of Sikhs worldwide. Every year on September 12, Saragarhi Day is commemorated, particularly by the Sikh Regiment of the Indian Army, as a day to remember the bravery and sacrifice of the 21 soldiers. In India, the story of Saragarhi has been immortalised in several ways, including in school textbooks, films, and cultural narratives.
In recent years, the battle has gained more attention in popular culture. Films like "Kesari" (2019), starring Akshay Kumar, have brought the story to a broader audience.
- With inputs from agencies
