Leicester Museum & Art Gallery will host a bronze sculpture commemorating the 2.5 million South Asian soldiers who served in the British Indian Army during the Second World War. The installation, titled The Forgotten Army, opens on Friday, May 8, coinciding with the 81st anniversary of VE Day.
Created by artist Mahtab Hussain, the work features five uniformed figures representing the religious and cultural diversity of the largest volunteer force in history. The sculpture includes depictions of Gurkhas, Muslims, Sikhs, and Hindus. A female soldier stands at the front, holding the Royal Governor’s flag aloft, surrounded by four figures symbolizing those who fought for democracy.
| Event Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Exhibition Dates | May 8 – June 14, 2026 |
| Location | Leicester Museum & Art Gallery |
| Artist | Mahtab Hussain |
| Family Roadshow | Saturday, May 16, 11:00 – 14:00 |
| Collaborators | Royal British Legion & British Future |
Bronze tribute arrives at Leicester Museum
The sculpture transitioned to Leicester following an unveiling in Liverpool last year. It serves as a physical reminder of the service and sacrifice often overlooked in traditional narratives of the Second World War. Assistant city mayor Cllr Vi Dempster noted that the anniversary of VE Day is a poignant moment to recognize all who served the nation.
Artist Mahtab Hussain designed the piece to ensure inclusivity in national remembrance. The work highlights the impact of various faiths uniting for a common cause. The project is a joint effort between the Royal British Legion (RBL) and the think tank British Future, aiming to integrate these stories into the broader British national identity.
Celebrating the world’s largest volunteer force
Antony Metcalfe, head of community engagement at the RBL, stated that the contributions from South Asia and the Caribbean have fundamentally shaped modern Britain. Sunder Katwala, director of British Future, emphasized that South Asian soldiers formed the largest volunteer army in history and that recognizing their role is essential for a unified national story.
Interactive roadshow for local families
A dedicated roadshow on Saturday, May 16, will offer Leicester families opportunities to engage with this history. The event, titled Forgotten Army Roadshow: South Asian Service in the World Wars, includes educational activities such as building a Spitfire model and wartime-themed arts and crafts.
The sculpture will remain on display in Leicester until Sunday, June 14, before continuing its national tour to Huddersfield.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the ‘Forgotten Army’ sculpture significant for the VE Day anniversary?
Created by artist Mahtab Hussain, The Forgotten Army commemorates the 2.5 million South Asian volunteers—the largest volunteer force in history—whose contributions were often omitted from traditional WWII narratives. By featuring figures of Gurkhas, Muslims, Sikhs, and Hindus, the sculpture serves as a physical correction to historical records, ensuring the 81st anniversary of VE Day reflects the true diversity of those who fought for democracy.
When and how can I visit the South Asian WWII exhibition in Leicester?
The exhibition is open to the public at the Leicester Museum & Art Gallery from May 8 through June 14, 2026. Entry is typically free during museum hours. For a more interactive experience, you should attend the Family Roadshow on Saturday, May 16, between 11:00 and 14:00, where representatives from the Royal British Legion will provide deeper insights into the project’s history.
What impact does this installation have on Leicester’s local community and identity?
The installation bridges the gap between local heritage and national history for Leicester’s diverse population. It provides a tangible connection for residents of South Asian descent to see their ancestors’ sacrifices officially recognized. By integrating these stories into the public space, the project helps redefine modern British identity as one built on the collective efforts of various faiths and cultures united for a common cause.
Where can I find official resources or follow the sculpture’s tour after it leaves Leicester?
For official visitor guides and educational materials, visit the Leicester Museums & Art Gallery website or the Royal British Legion’s (RBL) community engagement pages. As the project is a collaboration with the British Future think tank, their digital archives offer more extensive historical context and updates on where the sculpture may be permanently installed following the 2026 tour.
Source: Leicester City Council
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