A SETTLE Stories event will bring to life the true tale of more than a million Hindus, Sikhs, Muslims and Gurkhas fought for Britain during the First World War.

More than 74,000 sacrificed their lives and the new show Soldiers of the Empire at 7pm on Saturday, July 14, at Joinery in Settle, will explore the legacy of their contribution in an exhilarating and moving dance music and storytelling performance by Annapurna Indian Dance Company.

Artistic director Shantha Roe is dedicated to telling the story and paying homage to the forgotten soldiers from undivided India in this, the final centenary year of World War One.

Annapurna Indian Dance Company aims to introduce the artistic and cultural heritage of India through performances of graceful and rhythmic Indian dances and storytelling. Their aims fit closely with those of arts charity Settle Stories, who believe both telling local stories and those from other cultures can increase respect and understanding between different cultures.

Shantha was born in India and when she discovered this story it pulled at her heartstrings.

She said: “It’s because of the sacrifices made by these soldiers that I am now here in Britain. The picture of multicultural Britain and how and why it has evolved into becoming one - becomes very clear if one knows this precious shared history. This is why this story has taken over my life.”

Settle Stories is proud to present a performance that interweaves storytelling, music and traditional Indian dance - Bharata Natyam. This dance style is famous for its crisp rhythmic footwork and telling stories using stylised facial expressions and intricate hand gestures.

Soldiers of the Empire was initially funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund and has since toured to venues across the UK.

Tickets, which cost £14 or £12, are available online at settlestories.org.uk or by ringing 05603 845693.