The Force K6 – Indian Contingent Story

Discover the fascinating but little-known story of a Muslim force – part of the Royal Indian Army Service Corps – who were stationed in the Cairngorms during WWII after fleeing the blitzkrieg in Dunkirk.

This unique multi-media performance will explore the experiences of Force K6, later re-named The Indian Contingent, as they camped in Speyside, joined mountain warfare training and formed friendships with local communities across the Highlands – helping on farms, playing with children and sharing chapatis and stories.

The regard these soldiers earned from their British colleagues and the warmth of welcome they received from Highlanders will be celebrated through storytelling, images, music and poetry. The performance will include original footage and images of the Contingent, sung Islamic verse and flute from musician Hamish Napier, as well as stories told by Dr Ghee Bowman, author of ‘The Indian Contingent: The Forgotten Muslim Soldiers of Dunkirk’ and Colin Hexley, the son of Lt Col. T.W.P. Hexley who served with Force K6, among others.

Organised by the Storylands Sessions in partnership with Colourful Heritage, The Force K6 – Indian Contingent Story is taking place as part of Scotland’s Year of Stories and Badenoch Heritage Festival 2022.