Nahan, 08 June : In the picturesque city of Nahan, Himachal Pradesh, resides a remarkable artifact from the First World War: a gun that is over 120 years old. Such historical treasures are typically found in history books or antique museums, but this particular gun has been meticulously preserved through the generations. Its discovery has intrigued historians, including Kanwar Ajay Bahadur Singh, who marveled at its unique characteristics. During every election, this gun is safely stored in the police station’s “Malkhana.”
Subedar Dhyan Singh of Sirmaur State wielded this gun during the First World War (1914-1918). The Indian Army participated in the war, with Subedar Dhyan Singh among its ranks. The First World War marked significant technological advancements, being the first conflict to extensively use airplanes and tanks. For his bravery, the British awarded Subedar Dhyan Singh the title of “Bahadur.” Upon his retirement, he received a pension and a war reward of Rs 10, which arrived from London in the form of silver Victoria coins. After his death, his son, Late Ranjit Singh Thakur, continued receiving this reward. Ranjit Singh Thakur also served in the Army for 18 years.
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Subedar Dhyan Singh Bahadur enlisted in the Sirmour State army in 1887 at the age of 19. After 33 years, 3 months, and 14 days of service, he retired in 1920. Post-World War I, he was specially invited to Buckingham Palace in England, where the British Government conferred upon him the title of “Bahadur” for his valor.
Alongside the gun, Subedar Saheb was awarded a gold medal, a sword, and a Khukri. This priceless legacy is meticulously preserved by Prem Prakash and Rajkumar Thakur of Nahan. Prem Prakash Thakur asserts that the gun, an SBBL (Single-Barrel Breech Loading), dates back to British rule and was first used in the First World War. It was manufactured in the USA. Dhyan Singh Bahadur was born in Dingri Dhini village of Pachhad tehsil.
In a conversation with MBM News Network, Prem Prakash Thakur mentioned that his grandfather received a pension of Rs 165 per month, a substantial amount at the time. The Raja of Sirmour State informed the British Government that his state could not afford this pension, leading the British to pay it from their treasury. The pension arrived from England via the post office. King George R.I. sent handwritten commendations to Subedar Dhyan Singh Bahadur for his bravery.
Historians Also Astonished
Kunwar Ajay Bahadur Singh, a member of the Sirmaur royal family and historian, was amazed by the gun. He remarked that although he has seen many old guns, he had never seen one like this. The unique lever action, where the cartridge slides up, particularly intrigued him. The gun has a small adjustable hole for range modifications and is exceedingly rare.
He also highlighted the special cleaning rod designed for this gun. Remarkably, the gun’s sling, over 110 years old, remains intact. Kunwar Ajay Bahadur Singh emphasized the importance of preserving such antique guns, noting that the sling was later replaced with leather.
Preserving History : The Nahan Gun
The Nahan gun is a significant historical artifact, a testament to the valor and legacy of Subedar Dhyan Singh Bahadur. Its preservation offers a tangible connection to the past and the technological advancements of World War I.