The ANZAC Jawan Cenotaph at Cherrybrook stands as a poignant New South Wales War Memorial, honouring the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC) soldiers of Indian heritage who served valiantly during World War I. Situated in Greenway Park, Shepherds Lane, opposite the Cherrybrook Aquatic Centre in Cherrybrook, NSW 2126, Australia, this monument holds significant symbolism, reflecting both Indian and Australian cultural elements.
Central to the cenotaph’s design is the prominent Ashok Chakra, a symbol deeply rooted in Indian heritage, alongside the logo of the Australian Army, evoking the image of the ‘surya’ or rising sun. This fusion pays homage to the diverse backgrounds of the ANZAC soldiers it commemorates.
The initiative behind the creation of this landmark deserves commendation, with the Hindu Council of Australia spearheading the project. It provides the Indian-Australian community with a meaningful space to gather and commemorate various occasions, including India’s Independence Day, ANZAC Day, and Armistice Day, marking the end of World War I, which claimed up to 13 million lives.
Erected in 2018 to coincide with the Armistice Centenary, the ANZAC Jawan Cenotaph serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by ANZACs of Indian origin. The Hindu Council of Australia, in collaboration with the Department of Veteran Affairs, Mr. Julian Leeser MP, the Member for Berowra, Hornsby Shire Council Mayor Hon Philip Ruddock, and Hornsby RSL Subbranch, came together to realize this tribute.
Under the auspices of the Australia India Cenotaph Committee, a project of the Hindu Council of Australia, commemorative services for ANZAC Day and Remembrance Day have been conducted since 2018. This cenotaph has become a Place of Pride, recognized by the Australian War Memorial, not only for the local Australian-Indian community but also for visitors from India.
Renowned Indian cricketer Kapil Dev paid his respects at the ANZAC Jawan Cenotaph on 16 August 2022, laying a wreath in honour of the fallen heroes. Additionally, the ANZAC Day Dawn Service held on 23 April 2023, saw dignitaries and veterans gather to pay homage to the sacrifices made.
This cenotaph serves as a testament to the enduring alliance between Australia and India, bound by shared values of friendship and democracy. It commemorates approximately 16,000 Indian troops who fought alongside Allied forces at Gallipoli, including infantry and mountain brigades, medical units, and mule drivers crucial for supplying Allied troops.
Australian historian Professor Peter Stanley’s work, “Die in Battle, Do Not Despair—The Indians on Gallipoli, 1915,” highlights the courage displayed by Indian troops during the campaign.
Today, as we celebrate Anzac Day as a free nation, let us not forget the sacrifices made by these brave soldiers, whose courage and valour continue to inspire generations.
“Lest we forget.”
The author is affiliated with the Australia India Cenotaph Committee, a project of the Hindu Council of Australia
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