Anglo Sikh Heritage Day
24/9/2011 to 24/9/2011
ASHT Heritage Shared 2011
Visit the museum & discover the link between the Ancient House & the last Maharajah of Lahore, Duleep Singh. See the gravestone of Maharani Jindan Kaur and many personal items of Duleep Singh.
Make it a day trip & visit the nearby statue of Duleep Singh on Butten Island & his graveside in Elveden Churchyard.
Illustrated Talks
2pm - The Lions Firanghis
In the early 19th century British superiority over India was temporarily impeded by Maharajah Ranjit Singh. He enlisted European officers from Napolean's disbanded forces and mercenaries from Prussia, Spain, Italy & Holland to modernise his formidable ‘Khalsa Army'. Author of 'The Lions Firanghis: Europeans at the Court of Lahore' Bobby Singh examines the impact of these ‘European mercenaries' and what become of them after the annexation of Ranjit Singh's kingdom.
2:35pm - Clash of the Lions
The outcome of the Anglo Sikh wars would change the destiny of the Punjab and its people for centuries. This talk will explore the background to these battles and the resultant legacy.
"No Sikh offered to submit and no disciple of Gobind asked for quarter. They everywhere showed a front to the victor and stalked slowly and sullenly away while many rushed singly forth to meet assured death by contending with a multitude.' According to Lord Hardinge who was present in the battle, "Few escaped; none, it may be said, surrendered. The Sikhs met their fate with the resignation which distinguishes their race" J D Cunningham
3:10pm - Refreshments
3:35pm - Maharajah Duleep Singh
Peter Bance author of numerous books on Maharajah Duleep Singh will highlight the tragic life of this last king of the Sikhs.
4pm - Questions
Time: 10:30am-3:30pm
Location: Ancient House Museum of Thetford Life, Thetford, Norfolk IP24 1AA
FREE
Booking essential email ancient.house@norfolk.gov.uk or call 01842 752599
