Risaldar-Major, Full Dress 1897


This is a full length photo of Risaldar-Major Kesur Singh 5th Cavalry, who went to London in 1897 for the grand parades and celebrations of Queen Victoria's diamond jubilee. The ranks of Indian officers had different titles to those of British officers. Jemadar was the junior rank, equal to a 2nd lieutenant; Risaldar was equal to a lieutenant. The highest rank for an Indian officer was Risaldar-Major.

The turbans were of different styles according to the religion or ethnic group of the wearer. Sikhs had no pointed khulla like the others, but they had a pag which can be seen on his forehead. The outer part of the turban is gold and black striped. His tunic, called a kurta, is dark green with scarlet collar and cuffs. The lace and Russia braid are all gold. His cummerbund sash is red with a hanging end of gold and black stripes. The pouchbelt and waistbelt are gold laced and his sabretache hangs from the waistbelt with his mameluke sword.


Uniforms | Regimental History


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by Stephen Luscombe