Nov 11 2023 to Nov 11 2023 11 a.m.

EVENT HAS ENDED

Where

Bangalore International Centre

7 4th Main Rd, Stage 2, Domlur 560071

Event Description

On Armistice Day, 11/11/2023, Githa U Badikillaya, the founder and trustee of Destination Heritage, delivers an enlightening talk titled Bangalore’s Lost Voice in World War I. She delves into historical archives to shed light on the forgotten military presence in Bangalore during World War I. During the Great War of 1914-18, the British minimized India’s significant military contribution, and post-independence, India often disregarded these contributions in its pursuit of shedding colonial remnants.

Military units were stationed in the cantonment area, such as Munireddy Palya/ Gangenahalli, housing the Mysore Lancers, Mysore Infantry, and Mysore Transport Corps, while Ulsoor hosted the Madras Sappers, and Domlur accommodated the Army Service Corps and AGRAM. The city boasts four memorials, including the ASC Centre, Brigade Road/Residency Road intersection, Mysore Lancers memorial at JC Road, and St. Joseph’s School. These living reminders of a century-old history are intertwined with Bangalore’s connection to the Great War.

This chapter of history also resonates with notable figures like Mysore Maharaja Nalvadi Krishnaraja Wadiyar, WWI’s commanding Officer Col. J. Desaraja Urs, Risaldar A. Lingaraj Urs, Turab Ali, Bahadur Chamaraj Urs, and even animals. Furthermore, there are intriguing connections to the Government Soap Factory and the Major General SL Bhatia Museum for the History of Medicine. Notably, the city produced two remarkable leaders who later became the Prime Minister of Britain and the President of Israel.

After the talk, Githa U Badikillaya will be in conversation with Siddharth Raja. A Q&A with the audience will follow.