Lance Naik Marudhiah
Vignesh Murali’s story
My maternal grandfather, Lance Naik Marudhiah enlisted in the British Indian Army on 9th December 1942 at the age of just 18. He served as a storeman in the Royal Indian Army Service Corps (RIASC), the backbone of the military’s logistics and supply network during both world wars. His work ensured that vital supplies reached soldiers on the frontline — a role that demanded reliability, precision and courage. Through his dedication, he rose to the rank of Lance Naik.
He was made redundant in 1946 as part of the large-scale demobilisation that followed the end of World War Two. His medals have since been formally identified and his replica medals mounted — a moment of immense pride for our family. My mum, who also proudly served in the Indian Army, now wears his medals each year at remembrance ceremonies in the UK.
His service laid the foundation for a legacy of pride, service, and remembrance that continues across generations.
My grandfather’s service instilled values of discipline, duty, and compassion that have echoed through our family. Those same principles inspired later generations — including my mother’s own military service and my career in the NHS. Our move to the UK was rooted in that same spirit of service: a desire to contribute, lead and make a difference.
Through Mission Marigold, our family continues to honour that legacy — connecting past and present, recognising the sacrifices of those who came before us, and ensuring their stories are never forgotten.
I feel a deep sense of pride, gratitude and connection to my heritage. My grandfather’s service during the Second World War reminds me of the immense contributions made by Indian soldiers who fought with honour and resilience long before independence. His courage and humility continues to inspire me and shape my understanding of service, leadership and sacrifice.
From his service in the war to my mum’s time in the Indian Army, and now to our work through Mission Marigold; our family’s story is one of remembrance and renewal. Mission Marigold has grown from strength to strength, celebrating South Asian heritage, honouring intergenerational stories of service and migration and fostering unity and understanding through acts of remembrance.
Love you, Thatha — miss you always.
