'You fight & die for us, while we watch the spectacle (Tamasha)' - by K J S Chatrath

 

This picture post card shows the arrival of the Indian army in Marseilles, France in 1914. They were sent there to fight on behalf of the British colonial masters and  to defend France.

This photograph leaves an uneasy feeling in me. While Indians arrived after a long and arduous sea journey in France, they were immediately made to march through the town, presumably to shore up the sagging morale of the British and the French. But look at the crowd. French gentlemen in smart dresses and hats seemed to have come out of their houses to watch the spectacle (Tamasha) of Indian forces marching.

What were they doing there when their country was under attack and they had to call the Indians to save them.

Shouldnt all these French gentlemen have been at the Front line fighting for their country? Each one of them.

 This is my perception on seeing this picture postcard. I could be wrong. You decide for yourself. 

 

 .....

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