Home > Historic > World War I and II > World War I
Indian troops smoking in the trenches during World War I
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
Indian troops smoking in the trenches during World War I
Sikhs and Hindus in the trenches take turns at drawing tobacco-smoke through a straw. Date: 1915
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 14159422
© Illustrated London News Ltd/Mary Evans
Bowl First Hindus Pipe Sikhs Straw Tobacco Trenches
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Historic
> World War I and II
> Soldiers
> Historic
> World War I and II
> World War I
EDITORS COMMENTS
This evocative photograph captures a moment of respite for Indian soldiers during the harsh realities of the First World War. Dated 1915, the image shows Sikh and Hindu troops taking turns at drawing tobacco smoke through a straw in the cramped confines of a trench. The soldiers, huddled together for warmth and camaraderie, are a testament to the diverse makeup of the British Indian Army during this period. The First World War saw over one million Indian soldiers deployed to various fronts, making up a significant portion of the British military effort. Many of these soldiers served in the infantry, including the famed Sikh and Punjabi regiments, who were renowned for their bravery and discipline. Despite the harsh conditions and the distance from their homeland, these soldiers found solace in simple pleasures, such as smoking tobacco. The act of sharing a pipe or drawing smoke through a straw was a common bonding ritual, helping to alleviate the stress and monotony of trench life. The photograph also reveals the makeshift nature of the soldiers' living conditions. The trench walls are adorned with various items, including a bowl used for smoking, while the ground is littered with discarded equipment and debris. The soldiers' uniforms are worn and mud-splattered, a stark reminder of the harsh realities of trench warfare. This photograph provides a poignant glimpse into the lives of Indian soldiers during the First World War, offering a glimpse into their daily struggles and the small moments of comfort they found amidst the chaos and hardship.
MADE IN AUSTRALIA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
FREE COLORIZATION SERVICE
You can choose advanced AI Colorization for this picture at no extra charge!
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.
