Turbaned Sikh soldier’s statue unveiled in Gravesend, UK
Monday, 01/12/2014
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Jalandhar : Punjabis have carved a niche for themselves across the world. Adding glory to the pride of Punjabis globally, the statue of turbaned Sikh Soldier-Squadron Leader Mahinder Singh Pujji DFC was unveiled at Gravesend in United Kingdom (UK).
A long awaited event, the statue was installed following the untiring efforts of councillor Tanmanjeet Singh Dhesi, former Mayor and Labour’s MP candidate for Gravesend. “It’s a momentous day, not only for the community of Gravesend but for the UK. I am sure that such initiatives would help to further integrate all our community into one cohesive whole”, he said.
Dhesi maintained that Guru Nanak Darbar Gurdwara Gravesend helped in raising a considerable sum for the installation of the statue of the renowned Squadron Leader. “It has been a collective community effort, especially the fundraising drive, as three years ago, we had raised £70,000”, he added.
The project took nearly three years to complete. Gravesham Borough Council Leader John Burden and a statue committee supervised the project. The council made all arrangements like finding a sculptor and a suitable town centre location.
Air Vice-Marshal Edward Stringer elaborated on the distinguished history of this courageous officer pilot and said, “Former Mayor Dhesi coordinated the considerable fundraising effort.”
Edward Stringer pulled the cord to unveil the 8 feet bronze statue mounted on a 4 feet Portland stone plinth, followed by rapturous applause and Sikh slogans of “Bole So Nihal, Sat Sri Akal” from the large gathering along the river Thames.
Mayor of Gravesham and Councillor John Caller, highlighted the long journey to install the statue of this extraordinary local hero. He especially praised the magnificent work of sculptor Douglas Jennings.
The British Sikh community was elated for installing the statue of the Sikh Solder, hence recognising their war efforts and serving as a role model for future generations?. However, the inscription at the rear of the statue has mentioned that the Pujji statue symbolized-’It is to commemorate those from around the world who served alongside Britain in all conflicts from the year 1914 to 2014.’
