The Federation of Indian Communities of Queensland (FICQ) has made its first formal appearance at Brisbane’s official ANZAC Day Parade, marking a turning point in how multicultural Australia recognises its shared military history.
With support from the India-Australia War Memorial Organisation, FICQ’s involvement was more than ceremonial. It represented a maturing recognition of the contributions made by Indian soldiers—particularly in World War I—alongside Australian troops in campaigns like Gallipoli. While thousands marched through Brisbane’s CBD on 25 April, this was the first time an Indian-Australian contingent officially joined the commemorative ranks.
Later that evening, FICQ, in collaboration with the Consulate General of India in Brisbane, hosted an ANZAC Commemoration Dinner that brought together state MPs, councillors, defence officials, and Indian community leaders. Among those in attendance were Hon. Fiona Simpson MP, Shadow Minister Charis Mullen MP, Senator Paul Scarr, and Brisbane City Councillor Vicky Howard, alongside Captain Geetika Punia and Councillor Andrew Wines’ representative.
FICQ President Dr Preethi Suraj addressed the gathering, reflecting on the long-standing work of the organisation. “FICQ Inc. has been at the forefront of working with the Indian diaspora and community organisations for over 27 years and today marks another important milestone in that journey,” she said. “This event honours the ANZAC legacy and brings to light the shared sacrifices of Indian soldiers. It’s a proud and humbling moment for our community.”
The evening was solemn as well as celebratory. A moment of silence was held for the victims of the 22 April terror attack in Pahalgam, India—a gesture that reminded many in the room of the fragile nature of peace, both globally and within the subcontinent.
While Australia’s military history often focuses on its British ties, historians have long argued that the Indian presence at Gallipoli and in other theatres of war has not received due recognition. Over 15,000 Indian troops served in Gallipoli, many under British command, facing the same brutal conditions as the ANZACs, but with fewer mentions in commemorative speeches or public memory.
FICQ’s participation, according to event attendees, is a quiet correction to that record. It also reflects the slow but growing effort by diaspora groups to reclaim narratives that have been flattened over time. The organisation plans to build on this engagement through ongoing sessions, collaborations with veterans, and education initiatives that highlight the shared histories between India and Australia.
While the words “Lest We Forget” closed the evening as they have in ceremonies across the country, the addition of “Jai Hind” added another layer—a reminder that remembrance has many voices, and they can walk side by side.
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