A distinguished voice of remembrance lends public support to our memorial initiative.
The Freedom Fountain initiative is honoured to receive the public support of Captain (Ret.) Yavar Abbas, a 105-year-old World War II veteran, 11th Sikh Regiment, and acclaimed filmmaker. Captain Abbas, who documented pivotal moments of the 20th century and later produced award-winning films, met with members of our team to discuss the project’s aims and governance.
Meeting Captain Abbas
Inspired by a recent BBC Radio 4 interview with Captain Abbas, our team reached out and was invited to meet him. Representatives Abdul, Piero and Colleen attended, presenting the project’s purpose, oversight and timeline. Captain Abbas conducted a clear-eyed review of our plans, asking precise questions about responsibilities, budgeting and public communications. When he learned that the sculpture design work is being donated, he expressed heartfelt appreciation to Colleen, underscoring his respect for voluntary contributions to the public good.
Having witnessed the consequences of global conflict first-hand, Captain Abbas spoke movingly about the duty to remember. His reflections on sacrifice and responsibility resonated deeply with our team and reaffirmed the importance of an inclusive memorial in Cambridge.
Captain Abbas recommended that our materials consistently use the historic name “United British Indian Army (1898–1947)”. We are implementing this across our website and documents to ensure accuracy and context. He also encouraged us to seek national partners, including the National Memorial Arboretum and the Royal British Legion, and has offered to write to relevant institutions to support those conversations.
Recent recognition: meeting the King
In August 2025, during the 80th anniversary of VJ Day at the National Memorial Arboretum, Captain Abbas went “off script” to salute King Charles III for attending despite undergoing cancer treatment—an emotional moment that moved the King and Queen Camilla to tears and drew wide national coverage. After the ceremony, the King spent time speaking with Captain Abbas and his family. (The Independent)
Next steps
Captain Abbas has formally expressed strong support for the Freedom Fountain. He has indicated interest in visiting Cambridge with his wife and in hosting a film evening, potentially featuring excerpts from Faces of India. He has urged us to maintain momentum on registrations, planning and stakeholder engagement, and will remain in contact as we progress.
We are profoundly grateful for Captain Abbas’s endorsement and counsel. His involvement strengthens our commitment to a memorial that honours the service of the United British Indian Army (1898–1947) and reflects the shared values of remembrance, unity and peace.
— The Freedom Fountain initiative
P.S. The BBC also covered Captain Abbas’s royal moment online: The 104-year-old WW2 veteran who moved the Queen to tears.