Battle of Saragarhi

The Battle of Saragarhi took place on September 12, 1897, between 21 Indian Sikh soldiers of the British Indian Army and a large attacking force of Pashtun and Orakzai tribesmen. Located in present-day Pakistan, Saragarhi was a small military outpost tasked with guarding a strategic communication route. Despite being heavily outnumbered, the Sikh defenders fought bravely and held their position for several hours before being overwhelmed. Their courage and sacrifice became a symbol of loyalty and bravery, inspiring many and earning them the Indian Army’s highest gallantry honor, the Param Vir Chakra's equivalent for posthumous recognition.