The Ghurkas at Gallipoli. The Battles of the 29th Indian Infantry Brigade on the Gallipoli Peninsula in 1915.

Abstract

The Gallipoli Campaign of 1915 left a lasting imprint on the histories of many nations involved. For Turks, Australians, and New Zealanders, it became a cornerstone in the formation of national identity. For the British, it remains a source of deep embarrassment—one of the most painful military defeats in their history. The French often regard it as an unnecessary venture, orchestrated by their closest allies.

What is less commonly remembered is that Indian soldiers also played a significant role in this campaign. Most served in the 29th Indian Infantry Brigade, whose actions form the central focus of this article. The brigade participated in nearly all major engagements of the campaign—initially fighting in the southern part of the peninsula before being redeployed north in the summer to the ANZAC-held sector. The brigade remained stationed on the peninsula until nearly the end of the campaign, with the last troops withdrawing in the second half of December 1915.

Accustomed to operating in extreme conditions, Indian soldiers proved to be remarkably effective. Military reports consistently praised their determination, high morale, and combat proficiency. Despite enduring severe hardships, their discipline remained exceptionally high. However, this dedication came at a steep cost. Of the approximately 15,000 Indian troops who took part in the campaign, nearly one-third were killed, wounded, or died from other causes.

To this day, the contribution of Indian soldiers at Gallipoli remains an underexplored subject in historiography—often mentioned only in passing within broader studies of the campaign or the involvement of other national contingents. This article seeks to help fill that gap by shedding light on their overlooked role and sacrifice.