Subedar-Major Mir Dast (1874–1945)
One of the most highly decorated Indian soldiers of the First World War. Born in the Tirah region of what is now Pakistan, he served with the 55th Coke’s Rifles (Frontier Force), part of the British Indian Army. His courage on the Western Front earned him a place in both military history and Brighton’s story.
In April 1915, during the Second Battle of Ypres, Mir Dast led his men under relentless fire after their British and Indian officers were wounded. Despite being injured himself, he carried several comrades to safety. His bravery saved lives in the chaos of one of the war’s most devastating battles. For these actions, he was awarded the Victoria Cross, the Empire’s highest honour for gallantry.
Wounded and exhausted, Mir Dast was brought to Brighton to recover at the Royal Pavilion Hospital, where Indian soldiers were cared for between 1914 and 1916. The Pavilion’s elegant halls had been turned into wards, and food, prayer spaces and medical care were provided in line with the soldiers’ traditions. During his stay, King George V visited the hospital and presented Mir Dast with his Victoria Cross, a ceremony recorded in photographs that remain part of Brighton’s history.
Mir Dast later returned to India and continued his military career until retirement. Though he spent only a short time in Brighton, his presence connected the Sussex coast with a global story of service, resilience and shared sacrifice.
Today, his name is remembered at The Chattri Memorial, which stands on the Downs overlooking the city. It honours the Indian soldiers who were treated and buried in Brighton during the Great War, men whose bravery, like Mir Dast’s, reached far beyond the battlefield.
Photo: Royal Pavilion & Museums, Brighton & Hove
