Anzac Day

Anzac Day History

Anzac Day commemorates the service and sacrifice of soldiers who served their countries in times of war, conflict, and peacekeeping operations. The day holds a special significance as it marks the anniversary of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC) landing at Gallipoli, Turkey during World War I in 1915. This event is considered a defining moment in the histories of the two countries and shaped their national identities, fostering a legacy of courage, pride, and comradeship among the people.

The connection between Anzac Day and India is rooted in their shared history as part of the British Empire and the fact that many Indian soldiers fought alongside ANZAC forces during World War I and World War II. Over 1.3 million Indian soldiers served in WWI, with approximately 13,000 of them losing their lives in Gallipoli. The participation of Indian troops in the Gallipoli campaign and various other conflict zones demonstrates the courage and dedication of these brave men who fought for a common cause alongside their ANZAC allies. This shared history thus serves as a reminder of the strong bond and mutual respect between India and the ANZAC nations.

Anzac Day is observed in a small scale by the Australian and New Zealand High Commissions in New Delhi. The event usually includes a dawn service with wreath-laying ceremonies to honour Indian and ANZAC soldiers who served together in the past. Anzac Day is observed annually on April 25th, providing an opportunity for people in India, Australia, and New Zealand to pay their respects to the brave soldiers who have served and sacrificed for their respective nations.

Top facts about Anzac Day

• ANZAC is an acronym for Australian and New Zealand Army Corps.
• The most important tradition of ANZAC Day is the Dawn Service held in both New Zealand and Australia. Traditionally only attended by veteran's and current military, a stand to and two minutes of silence would be followed by a bugler blast, the Last Post, and completed with Reveille.
• Over 1,300 Indian soldiers died during the Gallipoli Campaign. Many of these soldiers were awarded for their bravery, including Sepoy Khudadad Khan, who became the first Indian soldier to receive the Victoria Cross (Britain's highest award for gallantry) for his actions during the campaign.
• During the Gallipoli campaign, the Indian army provided support in various capacities like medical, transportation, and logistical support. The Indian forces worked closely with the ANZACs, and it is estimated that over 5,000 Indian soldiers were involved in the Gallipoli campaign alongside the ANZAC forces.

In the News and Trending in India for Anzac Day

Top things to do for Anzac Day in India

• Visit the an Australian War Memorial in Campbell (suburb of Canberra, Australian Capital Territory).
• Place red poppies besides the names of family members contained on the Memorial Roll of Honour.
• Use this day to educate yourself about the history and significance of Anzac Day.
• The red poppy is an international symbol of remembrance for fallen soldiers. Consider wearing a red poppy on Anzac Day as a symbol of solidarity and respect.