Remembering the contribution of the pre-partition Indian Army in the Second World War
The Forgotten Army Touring Exhibition is a collaboration between the Royal British Legion and British Future, highlighting the diverse, multi-faith Commonwealth contributions made during the Second World War.
Featuring a bronze sculpture created by leading artist Mahtab Hussain, the exhibition is raising awareness of a legacy too often forgotten.
2.5 million soldiers served in the pre-partition Indian Army, including Gurkhas, Muslims, Sikhs, Hindus, Christians and Indian women. The sculpture depicts five figures in uniform, representing the diverse nature of this Army.
Alongside the exhibition, a range of engagement activities are being delivered with local partners such as schools and community groups, helping build connections with British South Asian communities across the UK.
Upcoming tour venues
- Gallery Oldham (26 March – 23 April 2026)
- Leicester Museum and Art Gallery (8 May – 16 June 2026)
Mahtab Hussain
Mahtab Hussain’s work explores multiculturalism and the complexities of life as a British Pakistani living in the UK.
His grandfather volunteered to serve, but it was not something he talked about.
"As time went on, my dad spoke about my grandfather’s service in Burma. I really wanted to find a way to tell that story. The Royal British Legion’s support has been amazing. The project’s going to have a big impact."
Community Engagement in Action
National Memorial Arboretum, Staffordshire
Working with over 1,000 Year 9 students, the National Memorial Arboretum's Participation and Learning team extended the Forgotten Army exhibition project into schools through a creative learning programme, inspired by Mahtab’s artistic practice.
Students explored themes of identity, service and remembrance, reflecting on the stories of the British Indian Army and their global legacy.
Through a series of artist-led workshops, they developed their own poster artworks which
were displayed as part of this exhibition, forming a vibrant, collective tribute that connected young people to history through creativity and collaboration.
See the impact on the teachers and students involved in the Indian Army Project.
Liverpool John Moores University
Ahead of the Forgotten Army Exhibition being displayed at Liverpool Central Library in September 2025, students from Liverpool John Moores University worked in collaboration with Mahtab and our Community Engagement team to bring to life some of the stories
behind the sculpture.
This culminated in an augmented reality (AR) experience, designed by students, where people could immerse themselves in the stories of those from South Asia who served in the Second World War.
Watch The Forgotten Army Animations to see the stories brought to life by the students.
“It’s been a real privilege for our students to be involved in this project, delving into the forgotten stories of the soldiers who are honoured in this poignant sculpture.”
Professor Rachel McLean, Director of the Liverpool School of Art and Creative Industries