India General Service Medal 1908. Edward VII silver issue with clasp 'North West Frontier 1908' (Bhisti Gulab 53rd Sikhs)

The recipient was an attested 'Non Combatant' regimental follower of the Mussalman faith, performing the trade of 'Bhisti' (Water Carrier) while serving with the 53rd Sikhs

53 Sikhs (Frontier Force) - a mixed class regiment comprised 4 x companies of Sikhs; 1 x company of Dogra Rajputs; 2 x companies of Khattak Pathans and 1 company of Punjabi Musalmans - saw considerable combat during the 'Mohmand Expedition' operations on the North West Frontier during 1908, as reflected in the number of gallantry decorations awarded to native officers and other ranks of the regiment. vide:

- Indian Order of Merit: 3 x awards (all 3rd Class), including one to a Viceroy's Commissioned Officer
- Indian Distinguished Service Medal: 7 x awards

The mostly unsung but vital role of the humble 'Bhisti' (Water Carrier) was immortalised in Rudyard Kipling's poem 'Gunga Din', which was subsequently made into a Hollywood blockbuster movie

Kipling's immortal 'Gunga Din', was based on an earlier Bhisti of the Corps of Guides Infantry who had been appointed a Native Officer in respect to his repeated acts of conspicuous gallantry serving as a Bhisti at the 'Siege of Delhi' during the Indian Mutiny

Condition: VF

Code: 22381