Stephen Barker’s The Flying Sikh brings to light the remarkable story of Hardit Singh Malik, the only Sikh airman to serve in the Royal Flying Corps (RFC) during World War I. While many in India associate the moniker with athlete Milkha Singh, this book introduces readers to a different ‘Flying Sikh’—a pioneering aviator, diplomat, and civil servant whose life was shaped by resilience and determination.
Born in 1894 in Rawalpindi (now Pakistan), Hardit Singh Malik was educated in England from the age of fourteen, eventually attending Oxford University. Despite his privileged background, he faced significant challenges, particularly racial barriers, in his bid to enlist during the war. Barker meticulously traces Malik’s journey—from his initial struggles to join the RFC to his daring experiences as a fighter pilot flying missions in rudimentary aircraft like the Sopwith Camel. The book vividly captures the harsh realities of early aviation, from exposure to the elements to near-fatal crashes.
Barker’s research is thorough, drawing on Malik’s autobiography, archival records, and historical sources. The book is academic in tone, replete with footnotes, maps, and photographs, making it a valuable resource for history enthusiasts. However, some sections, such as Malik’s testimony on Indian students’ experiences in England, feel dense and could have been more engagingly structured.
One of the most compelling aspects of The Flying Sikh is its exploration of Malik’s dual identity—an Indian who thrived in the British establishment while maintaining his cultural and spiritual roots. Barker also delves into the political landscape of the time, examining how figures like Malik navigated colonial structures while supporting India’s independence movement.
While the book is largely an absorbing read, its introductory remarks on Malik’s autobiography being written in his “dotage” come across as somewhat dismissive, which could have been handled more sensitively. Despite this, The Flying Sikh is a fascinating and well-researched account of a man who defied racial and social barriers to achieve extraordinary feats. For those interested in military history, aviation, or unsung Indian heroes, this book is well worth reading.
